tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9149890309186092352024-03-17T23:02:52.938-04:00The Book ArchiveErin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.comBlogger254125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-41955860981957423662021-02-12T12:00:00.002-05:002021-02-14T19:59:33.780-05:002021 Book Releases I Am SO Excited About<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2021/02/2021-book-releases-i-am-so-excited-about.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkU66ynUOw42GUXuGkWSH4YZRKUGA7gDiQqsO0AXNrySJ4CWU3ZmbiJ8eHBsf-nmBsZofxyP_ujxGBh5JDkNqLgHyk78a2NzjQP_tBd3UcvPOtuaRafJLgLVxmJ5brMq46dAl3PxkRTvg/w640-h427/IMG_6783+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Typically, I am not the best at tracking all the new book releases: what they are, when they come out, who wrote them, etc. I tend to rely on other bloggers or Goodreads to find new releases. Strolling through the bookstore and perusing the shelves to find new books is also so much fun. But sometimes I end up missing books I would absolutely love, such as sequels to current favorites or a beloved author's upcoming novel. This year, I decided to spend some time browsing Goodreads and blogs to create a list of 2021 book releases I am so excited to read when they come out.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><br /></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><i><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">into the heartless wood by joanna ruth meyer</span> </i></b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53138258-into-the-heartless-wood?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=MJMkJLoD20&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1365" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbACFcEoS3tOQswp8zVtnfT0E3mFKyRA_1xQmNqPjQAM-rapLqUn3m-0JUi9OcDx5cmz1pVr9MeIZjt7pOOnRkxvc2AXjkDsAFsIDsEziqVAKI9gIOiIV3aN-cc2ivvaSbQyFb46rD-I/s320/ITHW.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Release Date: January 12th </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i><br /></i></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>Into the Heartless Wood </i>explores a fantastical forest inhabited by many magical folk, including sirens and the witch that keeps the strange wood alive by feeding souls to the heartless tree. One night, Owen wanders into the witch's domain and Seren, one of the tree sirens, saves him instead of killing him. What happens afterwards is a tale of love, danger, and war. How far will Seren go to become human? Is her wish worth pitting the humans and the witch against one another in a ruthless battle? </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">To me, nothing is better than a darkly atmospheric story with witches. This book was seeming written with me in mind. And can we talk about this gorgeous illustrated cover for a moment? What a lucky author Joanna Ruth Meyer is. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><i>rule of wolves </i>by leigh bardugo</b></span><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36307674-rule-of-wolves?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=N41CDXKWmu&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIEDJPoL_YhxC1HVDhmFoEC6UMpeJOJfEAo4SyB_DmVWRaP0zqami6w-nfNb-ROZcBqk0bjCMuI1Viyds2bsqyub4bLtkXfOH_SGmkyJa3RaA_NQLGs4HyBR92IgRO1TKtSP5pN7kmmRw/s320/ROW.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Release Date: March 30th</b></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>Rule of Wolves </i>is the long-awaited sequel to Leigh Bardugo's latest Grishaverse series: <i>King of Scars</i>. The first book follows some old favorites: Nina, Nikolai, and Zoya. Nikolai, now king, is faced with troubling transformations into a winged beast each night--a leftover effect from the curse he suffered during Ravka's civil war. But he must remain strong if he hopes to keep his country safe from its many enemies. To vanquish the darkness lurking inside of him, he and Zoya must venture to places unseen and confront long-forgotten powers. Nina, on the other hand, struggles with adapting back to life as a soldier and with finding the proper burial place for her dead beloved. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I adored this series' continuation into the world of the Grisha and their powers. I cannot wait to see what secrets this book holds. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><i>the bone maker </i>by sarah beth durst</span><i> </i></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53914899-the-bone-maker?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=m0rOz91Sq1&rank=2" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="332" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRxyBSQPpducyvOd-5UWMBEIzWXENyta040I7zz0garT3wdonhiFAQjkalVeG3Qr7CMYiQBpJdLNPOB6FNKg7AaYRmFLWvxmXI3HNi60yowPBKiQPMVTQAR3aFnn3FGYSoOAsMLPJkh7c/s320/TBM.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Release Date: March 9th</b></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Twenty-five years earlier, a group of five heroes defeated the evil bone maker, Eklor, who was using animal bones and magic to establish an army. However, only four of the heroes survived. Ever since, Kreya has dedicated her life to resurrecting her fallen husband no matter the cost. Her task requires sacrifice, the use of human bones, and a curse: for each day her beloved lives, she will live one less. Not to mention that using human remains for necromancy is forbidden. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Sarah Beth Durst wrote <i>The Queen of Blood</i>, a duology I adore. She crafts her fantasy worlds with care and I am even more excited what she will do with necromancy and retired heroes. This may be my most anticipated release this year. </span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><i>the ladies of the secret circus</i> by constance sayers</span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54916428-the-ladies-of-the-secret-circus?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=WRFI9EP4Qk&rank=5" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="308" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhecKWbaeza2Nqy-cb0IxD44gN8M3E1K5Dfb39a8kr_smc9NKqSzJRoAtbT5jJmcF9ysABAgUn6OwYIwjhNTFPtfJHa65NGQ4iXRJLedThpsDdIhIscNCY1PznPpNrnNjCkQtZhZFUgnDg/s320/TLOTSC.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Release Date: March 23rd</b></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>The Ladies of the Secret Circus </i>is set in two different time periods and locations: Paris, 1925, and Virginia, 2005. In the early 20th century, Cecile Cabot and her family have worked for a strange, magical circus for her entire life. Her world has always centered around the beauty and mystery of the circus. One day she meets a young painter and falls in love. But as she knows, everything comes with a price. Nearly a century later, Lara Barnes' fiance goes missing on their wedding day. Her search to find him leads her to read her great-grandmother's journals, which include stories of a family curse. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">We all know how much I love Erin Morgenstern's <i>The Night Circus</i> and wonderful, enchanting tales of magic and time. Add a curse on top of that and I'm hooked.</span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><i>ariadne</i> by jennifer saint</span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/54860614-ariadne?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=pRRJi3Pv5I&rank=2" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDd5gvcq1jWentTlRdNFfsJsi7oIUFeM3Erj5symTfKJN3wTC5T1vcE5MfZA594FI-VqJwF0BdmCUTIQ-QqZ6NEf1C4EHgp4WmPM-Fymalhah1lb7Xt40fu6C7TzYN3w3T5cFY_bO_bE/s320/A.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Release Date: May 4th</b></span><br /><span><br /><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Ariadne is the daughter of King Minos and Queen Pasiphae in Greek mythology, making her the sister of the legendary minotaur. Every year, her monstrous brother demands a price and this time they are to sacrifice a prince of Athens--Theseus. But then Ariadne and Theseus fall in love. Will Ariadne have the strength to betray her family and her entire country in order to save him? </span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I love Greek mythology and history so much that I am minoring in classical studies. Greek inspired books tend to find a spot in my favorites list, from Percy Jackson to <i>Circe</i> and <i>The Song of Achilles</i>. If the pattern holds, I will fall in love with <i>Ariadne</i>, too.<br /></span><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC8X3ponCGpSYY9wj6v6KI20Mg67nMlLf4FDsnBaXu_q309Xyi9DcGWmpxKKbmCP_GwruftzcY_x8M30GM2CT_ilYu9n78Czi9uK70lweWnGtnRq7CPYg7twh4XIUjqlzVJe1IOANM84/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjC8X3ponCGpSYY9wj6v6KI20Mg67nMlLf4FDsnBaXu_q309Xyi9DcGWmpxKKbmCP_GwruftzcY_x8M30GM2CT_ilYu9n78Czi9uK70lweWnGtnRq7CPYg7twh4XIUjqlzVJe1IOANM84/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What new releases are you looking forward to?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxe0lz-jTpZWllLEhmV9psLJNTZZsAJwfw_8zf1MNGvj64Kp7EVi5A340PKEnJo-0B9cyXK_Ul30LYKfZApsHgU847Ws-NnCGkEgHA8tnJ03SpatSn5FJB6AVLnmCnIgE6zt1FpY6AMtI/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxe0lz-jTpZWllLEhmV9psLJNTZZsAJwfw_8zf1MNGvj64Kp7EVi5A340PKEnJo-0B9cyXK_Ul30LYKfZApsHgU847Ws-NnCGkEgHA8tnJ03SpatSn5FJB6AVLnmCnIgE6zt1FpY6AMtI/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /></span></div></span></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-38451469194274011092021-01-29T12:53:00.002-05:002021-01-29T12:53:32.197-05:00My Favorite Stand Alone Fantasy Novels<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2021/01/my-favorite-stand-alone-fantasy-novels.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgClVPvTew3D9PYqJVASPI0Ef4C3tPyfAuasSlrzKRGRXnYfHN-KPngnUXjAg2-3B5ZL3i3LOjayFduw0RBPqV5Nf0lPiFYu0CphgVSMG-5wE0QHnden82XKBwdFLdy3lePlc4WxGtF93c/w640-h426/IMG_6266+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Fantasy is by far the best fictional genre. Who does not love a story involving wizards, magic, dragons, and the like? As much as I adore expansive series that thoroughly explore the depths of their detailed worlds, stand alone novels really speak to me. Inside their pages is a compact, singular tale that starts and ends in one volume. You do not have to wait for years on end to discover the secrets and dramatic finales. So I decided to compile a list of my favorite stand alone fantasy novels for everyone to enjoy. Pick one up and read it cover to cover. <span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>circe </i>by madeline miller</b></span></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/35959740-circe?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=TCETX4HQ4r&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygiTjkrHrg074qY3ESlxOqtK_6yD0L-cU98FvUvv0yFI7u0mtXzaS6yoRwGSEPtnlhxPI6d0U_SVqwcbRPePVpdbSkP0q8JnSkotrK6h_amoNEf6lbpJnuIwHOUrfzVM2RxYN5KNGMKE/s320/IMG_5425+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>Circe </i>explores the immortal life of mythological sorceress, Circe, who appeared in many Greek tales such as <i>The Odyssey</i>. Despite her prominence in other heroes' stories, she never had her own point of view--until now. Madeline Miller weaves a tale that is both powerful and tragic, brimming with wonder, individuality, and one powerful woman's search for identity in a dangerous world. Those who love Greek mythology, as well as those who do not, will find themselves enraptured by Circe's life. I would also recommend <i>The Song of Achilles </i>by her if you want more of a love story that will make you cry.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the ocean at the end of the lane </i>by neil gaiman</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15783514-the-ocean-at-the-end-of-the-lane?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=6ssMHlDStp&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpfBEYz1PBvpOqoc4swfUXFZ3xQMP_HL13RphgeDOsIk1P-CqB9UPHsZrwHxcPakvv91-roPbf_hyphenhyphenM6HftS0EU0ztdOlrjYt4zOUeFyh-AqqEFATaIbMVfdWToGN8Ih1I2STEmlyiQ0Qg/s320/IMG_6296+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Neil Gaiman is one of my favorite authors because of his unique, alluring writing style and magical realism stories. While </span><i style="font-family: helvetica;">The Ocean at the End of the Lane</i><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> is his shortest novel, it is his best. Small stories can pack a real punch. Set in England, and unnamed man returns to his childhood home for a funeral. There, he recalls the strange events from long ago that altered his life forever. As a boy, he had befriended a girl named Lettie Hempstock, who lived at the end of the lane with her strange mother and grandmother. She vows to protect her new friend from the darkness released by a sudden death. When people ask me what my favorite book is, I tell them it is this one. </span><i style="font-family: helvetica;">Ocean</i><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> gets as close to fictional perfection as one can get and everyone should witness its magic.</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the starless sea </i>by erin morgenstern</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9F2br8WzhTosHq0JIfjJqXrjTx8LlBoz4sdD0Huf3mMxMULPuB_v21B3wma68DMSHQW_nZh6x9Qd6YCfVhk3k80nChURBSWaeV-2mnV4dpNci4_k2lewb9QCrORFm6-IFHFgiUdjM3lI/s2048/IMG_6520+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9F2br8WzhTosHq0JIfjJqXrjTx8LlBoz4sdD0Huf3mMxMULPuB_v21B3wma68DMSHQW_nZh6x9Qd6YCfVhk3k80nChURBSWaeV-2mnV4dpNci4_k2lewb9QCrORFm6-IFHFgiUdjM3lI/s320/IMG_6520+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Years ago, Erin Morgenstern's <i>The Night Circus</i> wowed the book community. In 2020, her long awaited release wowed me even more than its predecessor. Not everyone will love the strange and beautiful aura of <i>The Starless Sea</i>. Erin Morgenstern writes a love letter to the art of story telling using her lyrical, purple prose and symbolic themes. The story left me breathless and overwhelmed with my adoration for such intricate, confusing plots. Zachary Ezra Rawlins discovers a book containing a scene from his own life, and this discovery leads him down a rabbit hole. He stumbles into a labyrinthine, everchanging underground library called The Starless Sea. Soon, he finds himself in the middle of a war for the survival or decimation of the library. <i>The Night Circus</i> will also always be another favorite stand alone of mine.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the picture of dorian gray </i>by oscar wilde</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrR0biyz29YeB7HIdBd3ZUkMcrIcwVgxW9lTFS_9S6WCMlcSEjZ1j5ZGOCgw63WfiyI6BzHSoOZv3nvx1MbLT9oksW-Voa6EfaHf4AKLpR5hPcQzvgfgneYU81qCXgMAhbcKCbpSqBAY/s2048/IMG_6518+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBrR0biyz29YeB7HIdBd3ZUkMcrIcwVgxW9lTFS_9S6WCMlcSEjZ1j5ZGOCgw63WfiyI6BzHSoOZv3nvx1MbLT9oksW-Voa6EfaHf4AKLpR5hPcQzvgfgneYU81qCXgMAhbcKCbpSqBAY/s320/IMG_6518+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Everyone has heard of this timeless classic about a man who sells his soul in return for immortality and beauty. While he does not appear to age, his hidden portrait turns more and more ghoulish with every sin and crime he commits. The writing style has the power to steal your breath away and set your heart pounding. Oscar Wilde is daring and unwavering in his exploration of morality, immortality, and human desperation. This novel is very revealing of the human psyche and bares all in an artful yet brutally honest depiction of humanity. I am not typically one for classics, but <i>The Picture of Dorian Gray</i> has aged beautifully and can be enjoyed by readers from all ages and walks of life. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>once upon a river </i>by diane setterfield</b></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #9fc5e8; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40130093-once-upon-a-river?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=mf69OiKXn7&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgclPODsnIjEA-kdPjxXuKe3sPxRUisQViUBtiCmtxu2CJ02QYSW6d9pmhCQ2tVrOAVp4hWb-qPQBZPkzxQe1GO_OJTjpJvjEsMxhIfE1snQBUujv7w3BAo4UQDx_XshM_apIiy6oKfCdo/s320/IMG_2876.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Odd, whimsical stories filled with mystery and dynamic characters always draw me in. This is exactly what occurred when I stumbled upon </span><i style="font-family: helvetica;">Once Upon a River</i><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> in the bookstore a couple years ago. Diane Setterfield's novel is set in a town upon the Thames River where an inn specializing in storytelling stands. One midwinter's night, a wounded man holding a small girl bursts into the inn. The girl, initially pronounced dead, soon returns to life. However, no one knows where the girl came from or who her parents are since she will not or cannot speak. A myriad of paths cross, from strangers and neighbors alike, as the rumors of the girl's identity and resurrection spread. </span><i style="font-family: helvetica;">Once Upon a River</i><span style="font-family: helvetica;"> is such a whimsical, enchanting story intertwining the complicated lives of so many different characters. It is particularly suited to the chillier winter months. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2Bo_ICGjn3M2SGQoCyfmv9J3TF5k4eDI8RSWuVraIjD9RI6yPCixaQGAmFIUlY5ptZdXtT-FiGpFx0SUE4C0ksh8NRJEM6XJKqohwlnqLhaZT0DdgHVjiYrdlNirzjWQA3nHnyqCk1A/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG2Bo_ICGjn3M2SGQoCyfmv9J3TF5k4eDI8RSWuVraIjD9RI6yPCixaQGAmFIUlY5ptZdXtT-FiGpFx0SUE4C0ksh8NRJEM6XJKqohwlnqLhaZT0DdgHVjiYrdlNirzjWQA3nHnyqCk1A/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What are your favorite fantasy stand alone books?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAb2Qr3STT22_5O6OxMjT0c7IzTQ7dtrXcUUpdDzJGOXE3f_VUtmc7v1q5cLAQ_Axsu4hCWhtUODDUyVyxNwTvOYVv80Aux5woEakPofpDtJx4VGZorYcPWqo1iorD3ijt9rdLMAkr6g/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimAb2Qr3STT22_5O6OxMjT0c7IzTQ7dtrXcUUpdDzJGOXE3f_VUtmc7v1q5cLAQ_Axsu4hCWhtUODDUyVyxNwTvOYVv80Aux5woEakPofpDtJx4VGZorYcPWqo1iorD3ijt9rdLMAkr6g/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-47511587094054290972021-01-15T12:00:00.002-05:002021-01-18T21:17:41.666-05:005 Books I Want to Read in 2021<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2021/01/5-books-i-want-to-read-in-2021.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIu9uI3tfKV852ybaFzrIulk2DnFBJ02ZQxtRbbfomaOQ6jAqPYpKyWKoeH3ijUoqKfz1h6Mmka2UbMF8Si_ksJATWZKE-0kaOfSeAHkD7Q8tGUXrfRN7k3LwUa1sDzJqtCoUNtypixfo/w640-h426/IMG_6329+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Wow, I have never been so excited for the new year. 2020 flew by at a breakneck pace while also seeming to last a hundred years. We were all thrown through loops nearly every single day, so here's hoping that this year will bring some much needed peace and quiet. For me, reading allows me to escape the current moment and dive into a world of fiction. This hobby has been a lifesaver for many lately. So, as usual, I have a list of books in mind that I would like to read in 2021.<span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>howl's moving castle</i> by diana wynne jones</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6294.Howl_s_Moving_Castle?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=Qqxjl9HINS&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="212" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Efo3tHJqBY6bJrYUp3bXTdd8f4FhV4hd8T31Q8cCI7hgYs8k0UlYq5t1oKtuZ5IO1yxQbR-kZvb95LxJjh09T58NI_ypCurKtYzBjoywZb5dpxQmFmt3WGVo9jrwNdFBkcmW6oazIgk/s320/HOWL.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I am a huge fan of Studio Ghibli movies and one of my favorites is the classic <i>Howl's Moving Castle</i>. Yes, my childhood self did indeed have a giant crush on emo Howl. Besides that infatuation and my general love for Ghibli, I enjoy the whimsical world of the film. <b>Somehow, I did not realize until recently that the movie is based on a book.</b> Now, I have set my sights on reading the novel, which follows the same general plot: the evil Witch of the Waste curses young, innocent Sophie. <b>The spell transforms her into an old lady and forces her to approach the mercurial, fantastical wizard named Howl.</b> In Howl's enchanted moving castle, Sophie hopes to find the cure to her curse by striking a deal with his fire demon, Calcifer. However, she soon comes to realize that a lot more is at stake than her life and that Howl is kinder than she first assumed. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>small spaces </i>by katherine arden</b></span><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/36959639-small-spaces?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=lJNCBqmi9g&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgScAll7oig5mXB-KAan5Vy9fynubo8BM9gR-jZPrKp-aYy-7NtdncM0oCMzFLzQzlxfxmwpCcerm5Ed793iMPs4ql0IsmL_4oYVIFqqva7-yxNbf6iba7RUu7gbGjCgP-4eKwwq18MkXk/s320/small.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><b>Here are two things I love: the horror genre and Katherine Arden's writing style,</b> as seen in her <i>Winternight</i> trilogy. Small Spaces combines both of those aspects into one creepy middle grade novel. The protagonist, Ollie, loves books--particularly one she stole that features a story with the sinister smiling man, a fictional specter than can grant a wish for a high price. On a school field trip to a local farming town, <b>Ollie finds the graves of the characters from that novel.</b> This revelation causes her to wonder: is the story about the smiling man true? When the bus breaks down on the return trip, the driver warns the students to get out before nighttime and to avoid large spaces. <b>Sounds deliciously spooky, no?</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><b style="font-family: courier;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;"><i>piranesi </i>by susanna clarke</span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/50202953-piranesi?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=XFEV4mKTir&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR6j2BmEXwUhVCQFG0JayCwFcm0l3VJFF2CmCcSsZdMWLmFP7J0OgcnqD4YnZNYT5UX4-Qq6wpg0sBMdQpVqx-R7PT5bbt_obowMRZoNbSXE7gQjgwA5gsFXldTdzzYETHFk9foxPS-Bo/s320/pir.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I am a fan of strange, magical tales full of twists and turns. When I stumbled upon Susanna Clarke's novel, <i>Piranesi</i>, in the bookstore, I knew it would fit that preference perfectly. <b>Add in a comparison to Neil Gaiman and Madeline Miller, two of my favorite authors, and I was sold. </b>The book is set in Piranesi's house: an <b>infinite building with a labyrinth of corridors and rooms that contain an ocean. </b>Piranesi fearlessly roams the house, knowing each tide and pattern by heart. Only one other resides there, a man called The Other. But Piranesi soon begins to discover evidence of another, causing long unexplained mysteries to unravel. What are the secrets of this labyrinth's existence? Is there another world outside the house? </span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>down comes the night </i>by allison saft</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/46189814-down-comes-the-night?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=lQuOmUu3uP&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1347" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMCLdaGA27-c_oYgo9gs8AGQUy2-lU1tURqGJyZtlI7MRq6j2NmYYo6i2_1nru4TOmedMKiLtZ5hZd1BeuQr2AAWHM7zlBBM2ZXpF4X1Ye5FHVfuSKvDYO__v9uH_SRLvoITD8G3UyE68/s320/down.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Sorting through the shelves at a bookstore and finding little gems of books is my favorite way to discover new favorites. <b><i>Down Come the Night </i>sounds to be a dark, magical tale of love and secrets. </b>Sinister forces are at work in Southerland's kingdom. After her reckless abandon and forbidden use of magic, the Queen banishes her from her Guard. Southerland accepts a request to visit eerie, cold Colwick Hall in a desperate attempt to redeem herself and return to her love. But the "servant" the lord of Colwick Hall asked her to cure from his mysterious illness is none other than her kingdom's greatest enemy. <b>He is known as the Reaper</b>, and while he may be considered evil, he has similar goals to Southerland. Both want to save their respective kingdoms, but will the secrets and dangers of Colwick Hall lead them to their dooms before they can achieve that goal?</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>peril at end house </i>by agatha christie</b></span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16424.Peril_at_End_House?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=xKPegaHRk6&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm5tiOU9qdehtxABIa2MGULhFFqvQ37Z8bkg8HNDDzU-1vYqQCkkelBh9TQrqAGla4salm6CgUp4yGFbk-abOW6OPeh7BrnhXWAzkT1MVUVSR238SRXWCKgfaBY7JEQMplGSGbisPPr6I/s0/peril.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Agatha Christie is one of my favorite authors and my all-time favorite mystery novelist. <b>However, a long time has passed since I have read one of her books, so I figured this was the perfect time to dive back in.</b> <i>Peril at End House </i>is another Hercule Poirot installment, this time set on the Cornish coast. The detective meets Nick, the young mistress of End House who has recently escaped a series of life-threatening accidents. Poirot, of course, does not believe these events to be mere accidents--<b>no, something peculiar is afoot.</b> He begins the chase, attempting to discover who is trying to kill Nick before she winds up dead. There is nothing better than a good mystery, especially one set in Cornwall. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepxyULugAKhYrX8epaQqGhTFMrq6oZSQwTdQ_TMQAQscdN0eTTD788WaDPscQka1kcOGd0RlCiVt25RvyGR_HdiNdYCWp9H5mwvN8CMvEwu6du5-Qjm2SCZGF3DP9B88MVeDqeySlq5I/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepxyULugAKhYrX8epaQqGhTFMrq6oZSQwTdQ_TMQAQscdN0eTTD788WaDPscQka1kcOGd0RlCiVt25RvyGR_HdiNdYCWp9H5mwvN8CMvEwu6du5-Qjm2SCZGF3DP9B88MVeDqeySlq5I/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What books do you want to read in 2021?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFP10eaK0Ln9JwqbpPZvhWoWqkF5CVX8gefGzNQNhJSuMXYBSI1Q0dZYJvVu3YSEp4DG4FNcjhquNvt_FcEZjADPy_LOzQewNFU4dtTsfxfzjQ2DNQq62TAEHSYsz1nQoypV9bs_8gb4/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdFP10eaK0Ln9JwqbpPZvhWoWqkF5CVX8gefGzNQNhJSuMXYBSI1Q0dZYJvVu3YSEp4DG4FNcjhquNvt_FcEZjADPy_LOzQewNFU4dtTsfxfzjQ2DNQq62TAEHSYsz1nQoypV9bs_8gb4/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /><br /></span></div></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-80149237808644546832021-01-01T13:44:00.001-05:002021-01-01T14:10:04.422-05:00Best Books of 2020<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2021/01/best-books-of-2020.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTEGtYy_P2OHuwBTNfuA5A8ZZYd55My2iXdMCizjuJZ_z2DzUZkVeiOtSqki4Z-XR8pudAbHNfK8U_CqXEXyEdg0zcE3zhDtj3NsbNG7axDEpGRQrNuLVD3UxFKIFzVy7x3LrFfsU5ePg/w640-h426/IMG_6003+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">2020 was a peculiar year. I do not think anyone expected the pandemic or quarantine. I started off flying to Scotland to study abroad, which got cut short early (thanks COVID), then I spent the rest of the year inside doing online university. How strange. Thankfully, I was able to escape reality and delve into some pretty amazing books. That is the beauty of fiction--they will always be there to transport you to other worlds and lives amidst the chaos of our own. These books made me laugh and cry, but most of all they brought me immense joy. <span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the song of achilles </i>by madeline miller</b></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzgch3VQ4ZSZjAH-ITH8fpwwv-EQY2QghSzN6y-P8Na2sPrUIeJn1152MNy7yTiHhAqs_H2B2aNJCZYdp_gMDRFu-xSHnWh3JtSe-peiXe0HDm76kH1BR_5FiFhkeBk9clDWD-9TwZio/s2048/IMG_9185+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuzgch3VQ4ZSZjAH-ITH8fpwwv-EQY2QghSzN6y-P8Na2sPrUIeJn1152MNy7yTiHhAqs_H2B2aNJCZYdp_gMDRFu-xSHnWh3JtSe-peiXe0HDm76kH1BR_5FiFhkeBk9clDWD-9TwZio/s320/IMG_9185+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The Song of Achilles explores the well known tale of Achilles and <i>The Iliad</i> but approaches it from different perspectives. Madeline Miller, who wrote one of my 2019 favorites, <i>Circe</i>, embraces the true mythology but expands it and gives lesser known characters a voice and a story. This book is told from Patroclus' point of view as he and Achilles grow up together and eventually go to war together. If you know mythology, you go into this book already knowing the ending. But that does not prevent the flood of emotions from hitting you. Not only is the writing superb and the story complex and emotional, the characters come to life on the page in such a way that you begin to care deeply for them. I am not much of a crier, but this one drove me to tears. Even those who do not typically find themselves drawn to Greek myths will enjoy this story.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>gideon the ninth </i>by tamsyn muir</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLQbLBgOofWLeoqRTzJjnzkeOTRZemYNtUQx0UMlcxpHfw0UQAXYbwR0E_1hUn-VcP6-EnE40aAvWMY6ATQblWIeeErDT8DR7NkEz2EcG_Vhe_FaXnwQqM4NcBLHW0rPBKSfQLpJs1rA/s2048/IMG_6000+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihLQbLBgOofWLeoqRTzJjnzkeOTRZemYNtUQx0UMlcxpHfw0UQAXYbwR0E_1hUn-VcP6-EnE40aAvWMY6ATQblWIeeErDT8DR7NkEz2EcG_Vhe_FaXnwQqM4NcBLHW0rPBKSfQLpJs1rA/s320/IMG_6000+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">This was one of the first books I read this year and wow, did it blow me away. I picked <i>Gideon the Ninth</i> up on a whim last year because the premise seemed so promising. In a nutshell, it is about necromancers in space. The story follows Gideon, who has grown up in the Ninth House alongside the heir to the throne, Harrow. The two women despise each other due to longstanding arguments and tragedies. But the Emperor has called for necromancers to participate in a deadly game to win a chance at immortality, and Harrow needs Gideon's help. <i>Gideon the Ninth</i> is wicked sharp, hilarious, and filled with mystery and sword fighting. The action packed plot will keep you guessing as it twists and turns, while the enemies to lovers romance will touch your heart. Go pick it up, read it, and love it. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the starless sea</i> by erin morgenstern</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i></i></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmJMGsE5W9PEsgaqPK56-BAzTGmDBGClng786Kp6mOdgXOQz1GapNStihOvvtx9Se2Xc96k_qRtK-60sjo2OTP2IcMObFKjlsLHOOzYIHGJlW5UKodzg9Qo3Nk8xF0Xz-wtV3MhAV5p4/s2048/IMG_5997+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibmJMGsE5W9PEsgaqPK56-BAzTGmDBGClng786Kp6mOdgXOQz1GapNStihOvvtx9Se2Xc96k_qRtK-60sjo2OTP2IcMObFKjlsLHOOzYIHGJlW5UKodzg9Qo3Nk8xF0Xz-wtV3MhAV5p4/s320/IMG_5997+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></i></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>The Starless Sea </i>is not a story for everyone, but it sure was perfect for me. At first, I was scared Erin Morgenstern's second novel would not live up to her first, <i>The Night Circus</i>, which is beloved by all, including me. I am happy to say I was wrong. In fact, her newest novel might have surpassed her first in my heart. A whimsical, ethereal, and strange tale of magic, love, and a hidden library, <i>The Starless Sea</i> is a love letter to story telling and prose. I fell into the pages like Alice fell into Wonderland. If you dislike purple prose and twisting, turning tales of magical realism, you probably will not enjoy this. I love all of those things, so it blew my socks off. It follows grad student and nerd, Zachary, who discovers a book with a chapter about him and an event from his younger years. Entranced by the tales and the markings on the side, Zachary discovers an ancient secret society and library set deep within the earth. The library has fallen into disrepair over time and the only living creatures left are a strange girl named Mirabel, a mysterious man, and a plethora of cats. Soon Zachary finds himself wrapped up in a battle to save or destroy the library for good. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>skyward</i> by brandon sanderson</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMb10tJZwo5Cp5F9pWj672LqIBmsEfQICzT2S_nle1VoaGPEWWw8HuSJ-spvxxLQNfDg-mzL6E4wNGKexVdSQJkdFyrmzArCe4uKGyxN1O4x_El3xp5IlBBzZC02qZ9ZW2zBWzrWFdoMU/s2048/IMG_7212+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMb10tJZwo5Cp5F9pWj672LqIBmsEfQICzT2S_nle1VoaGPEWWw8HuSJ-spvxxLQNfDg-mzL6E4wNGKexVdSQJkdFyrmzArCe4uKGyxN1O4x_El3xp5IlBBzZC02qZ9ZW2zBWzrWFdoMU/s320/IMG_7212+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I don't think anyone is shocked to see a Brandon Sanderson book on this list. He truly is the master of magic systems and world building. <i>Skyward</i> is his first young adult novel and rather than fantasy, it is science fiction. Once you crack it open, you will be sucked into an action packed plot that keeps you turning the pages for hours on end. I loved the characters: Spensa has so much spunk and her talking AI ship that she discovers is hilarious. Brandon Sanderson manages to build an expanisve world while keeping up a quick pace interjected with some levity to lighten the serious themes. Spensa wants nothing more than to become a pilot like her father. However, she has to fight tooth and nail to get a spot in the school since her father died a coward and traitor during the last great space battle. Spensa knows the lies about her father cannot be true--he was the most valiant and skilled pilot in the fight against the alien race that has been attacking their planet for decades. She must fight to earn her place as a pilot while trying to expose the truth about her father's death. Oh, and did I mention her talking ship that she finds crashed in the caverns of her planet that she begins to rebuild? </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>rules of civility </i>by amor towles</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UDGQYDKEFiC_ZXZsrEcb2T6tupCFcZbMTvavLmCUjzH887rNgD8hIvxQpfqO01Un5o8EQFhhfvCgH03CbKhES5xzPGlkd4qPB8W4Qlv8GYdoPFp7e5D38X5y9G3O5WlvUPByMxcNyGA/s2048/IMG_5993+EDIT.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8UDGQYDKEFiC_ZXZsrEcb2T6tupCFcZbMTvavLmCUjzH887rNgD8hIvxQpfqO01Un5o8EQFhhfvCgH03CbKhES5xzPGlkd4qPB8W4Qlv8GYdoPFp7e5D38X5y9G3O5WlvUPByMxcNyGA/s320/IMG_5993+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I did not expect this book to floor me, yet it did. If you have read any other posts previously, you know I adore fantasy and science fiction books more than anything else and that is what I tend to read. But sometimes, a fiction or mystery novel sneaks its way into my rotation and surprises me. <i>The Rules of Civility </i>studies how the smallest events and happenstances can change the course of your entire life. Katey Kontent is a young typist in 1930s New York City. Her life is mundane and expected until she and her roommate happen to meet a suave, charming young banker named Tinker. The unlikely friendship incites a series of events that alters Katey's life for good. This book enraptured me and sucked me into the story from the very first line. I did not want to put it down because I was so swept up in the ambiance and richness of life unfolding within the pages. </span><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyXoGP2lnpGkJ0zCIOZG86yOJzRdUtkLPAqu2QhbXaZdwQqkLiIEBS6SBOTXip2MUu-0PYUpddTD1o0m-iVaN-QAtdk_prx7eUFNFgIuRMqY2wjfFlLaH3TzHjdJxJzSGZ0BTT7XvHJM/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSyXoGP2lnpGkJ0zCIOZG86yOJzRdUtkLPAqu2QhbXaZdwQqkLiIEBS6SBOTXip2MUu-0PYUpddTD1o0m-iVaN-QAtdk_prx7eUFNFgIuRMqY2wjfFlLaH3TzHjdJxJzSGZ0BTT7XvHJM/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What were your favorite books of 2020?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyo1Xr18R-w4zd5lLI7TOYxDoeEjSU0tbMNiRp_FLoTMFmx-HC1efMV7Lx-zTbhyphenhyphenkULGcHd5rvEznNYGR6Smj1KK5qEump_DZmnWfOTPATDhr7hcZ-A1TLX1LEKFbAfQ4oTUneOXk6kqI/s238/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyo1Xr18R-w4zd5lLI7TOYxDoeEjSU0tbMNiRp_FLoTMFmx-HC1efMV7Lx-zTbhyphenhyphenkULGcHd5rvEznNYGR6Smj1KK5qEump_DZmnWfOTPATDhr7hcZ-A1TLX1LEKFbAfQ4oTUneOXk6kqI/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-15198488165791673062020-12-18T12:00:00.002-05:002021-01-01T13:44:40.428-05:00Winter Reading List<p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/12/winter-reading-list.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpVkx-Y02U_xzI2npv7AzN93DXxHdJdiz4cna3rBjTtPid9HlmZzX9Z0Q_Oq37zt0xutlijyvf-spc-imjovB3XtyFRaX6RpyQ7i947dwxeaCGahug_Y6LD3Kewzb0NA5ijF-Jy5w3BNI/w640-h426/IMG_3452+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Winter is finally and officially upon us. I am crossing my fingers hoping for snow as well as preparing for a very festive, quiet Christmas. This time of the year is perfect for bundling up in bed with some socks and blankets, a cup of hot chocolate resting nearby, and a good book in your hand. No season conjures such cozy feelings. The dark, cool weather crafts the ideal book reading and movie watching scenario. Here are the six books I want to read this wonderful season. <span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the hero of ages</i> by brandon sanderson</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6547259-the-hero-of-ages" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="261" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo8IZD9e8a5JBdyJmntXQA6_drAqgfwFi8NZZTAmWSS0D5x3GHNlOULwpeBkCxdlbXPv9iyl9Gd-xpn1b11TtKJog45I7i6hEU_jx0-WxwXgsPTKTFBVZR5j2IyUTJfldOhRaeMJFR-LU/s320/HOA.jpg" /></a></span></div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I have finally began reading the final book of the Mistborn series. What took me so long? Procrastination, yes, but also fear. I did not want this series, which is incredible and detailed, to end. If you never finish the series, the story is never over, right? But I cannot put it off forever and it is high time I get my act together, take a deep breath, and just <i>read it</i>. In case you do not know, this fantasy trilogy is set in an empire 1000 years after the prophesized hero failed to save the world. The Lord Ruler has reigned for centuries, immortal and all powerful. But Kelsier, a former prisoner and thief, is prepared to dethrone him. Kel is a mistborn, the most powerful kind of magic user that can manipulate all metals. He gathers a crew of powerful rogues to join in his mission--including a young slave girl named Vin. Vin, as it turns out, is more powerful than anyone ever suspected. Can she help Kel free the world from the terror of the Lord Ruler or will they die trying? The world building is incredible and Brandon Sanderson is the king of magic systems. I cannot wait to finally read this last installment despite the sadness. </span></span><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>the invisible life of addie larue</i> by v.e. schwab</b></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSd07kwxwZf2jmq9smd9MfjdE68FRStu6WUOmdlIJN-B-4JIykQyrB7cQfnYER-ODPVozSoz-zo3j3OAYmJBPWc0ZB8sCv2r5VGOCNongLEQdX2FEHtwdk2W-H3XLp1Lek9P1aT3Ld3M/s2048/add.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1347" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJSd07kwxwZf2jmq9smd9MfjdE68FRStu6WUOmdlIJN-B-4JIykQyrB7cQfnYER-ODPVozSoz-zo3j3OAYmJBPWc0ZB8sCv2r5VGOCNongLEQdX2FEHtwdk2W-H3XLp1Lek9P1aT3Ld3M/s320/add.jpg" /></a></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">V.E. Schwab is one of my favorite authors. <i>Vicious</i> and <i>A Darker Shade of Magic</i> both claim places as two of my favorite books. Yet it has been too long since I have read something by her and I am itching to pick one up. <i>The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue </i>is her newest release about an immortal woman cursed to never be remembered. She is living out her forgotten, lonely existence when suddenly she comes across someone who remembers her name for the first time in centuries. I love a whimsical, sad adventure tale with some amazing prose, and that is exactly what I expect from this new book. Plus that cover is so simple yet beautiful, how could I possibly resist? I have heard some mixed opinions regarding the plot but I would prefer to come to my own conclusion. Besides, I do adore winding, ethereal stories like those by Erin Morgenstern and if this novel is anything like that, I am sure I will not mind.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>we have always lived in the castle </i>by shirley jackson</b></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/89724.We_Have_Always_Lived_in_the_Castle?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=cOmSkve60K&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0vj1-Krmlf-ae6C43FFlabTTPNLry_Lhg1k9oxiIk4C0FpawZFA2nkc3eiQiirQEhNGlJy8-RxOIXXZ9M60JWLYM6AkUeXxHn-WcmaF5yQdL-q1q1CPimJ1KRCCu2l3PPsWFu7rDxoRA/s320/we.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">I don't know about you, but I love a creepy, spooky story. Shirley Jackson wrote <i>The Haunting of Hill House </i>and I love both the novel itself and the Netflix miniseries it spawned. <i>We Have Always Lived in the Castle </i>is her other horror/mystery novel that intrigues me. When the wind is blustering outside and the sun dips below the horizon, I am certain I will gravitate towards a story that will cause fear and discomfort. This book is told from the point of view of eighteen year old Mary Katherine Blackwood, who lives in an estate with her uncle and younger sister. However, a family tragedy haunts them and isolates them in their fear and guilt. If her previous novel can be used as a reference, I am sure this one will disturb me, inspire me, and leave me at a loss for words. </span><br /><i style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><i style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><i style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><i style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></i></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">harrow the ninth </i><span style="font-weight: bold;">by tamsyn muir</span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TP8ZX-yK2KLv3IcsVWcHa9t_8OBMPcRyebuHRw4x_3atwHtUliZuXRX74ojZXaOfDrXqWg5o2bcmYtcF2zFNYERarYRI0ko_kTrfeXxvCXktcvokvGl5_9Rw9jnCimZz81HdbgtMwss/s475/harr.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TP8ZX-yK2KLv3IcsVWcHa9t_8OBMPcRyebuHRw4x_3atwHtUliZuXRX74ojZXaOfDrXqWg5o2bcmYtcF2zFNYERarYRI0ko_kTrfeXxvCXktcvokvGl5_9Rw9jnCimZz81HdbgtMwss/s320/harr.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;">Here we are faced with my autumn failure. Listen, during the school semesters I simply lack the necessary time to read and I knew I would not be able to get to all the books on my fall TBR list. But the one I still want to read the most is the sequel to <i>Gideon the Ninth</i>, which was one of the best books I read in 2020. The first book is a funky, badass science fiction novel about necromancers in space. Gideon and Harrow, arch-nemeses, must compete against the other necromantic houses' leaders and cavaliers to win a chance at serving the Emporer and gaining immortality. For Harrow of the Ninth House, she must also protect her house's secrets at all costs while attempting to save it from certain extinction. <i>Harrow the Ninth </i>will hopefully be just as mysterious, dark, and hilarious as its predecessor. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>city of ghosts </i>by victoria schwab</b></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/37824221-craven-manor" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Deho0FSSBdFmxs08DgaUO1CyLyDAOnENKyt3Otntzw3CatRCjL42RLuGjUL1d9wTp-s4pcg5vM4MMB9tcw_cBgJefLFqmGynfZNFdXF_b-5oxtiErGjoPpX6XdVUmTUo_f0DXHLNtJ8/s320/city.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Oh, look, another V.E. Schwab book. I guess I am just experiencing some withdrawals. <i>City of Ghosts</i> is one of her middle grade novels, this time featuring ghosts and one of my favorite cities: Edinburgh, Scotland. The story follows a young girl named Cassidy Blake. Her parents are ghost hunters and have set their sights on an old, haunted city. But what they do not know is that their own daughter, Cassidy, can see the very spirits they are hunting. Cassidy is overwhelmed but the mass amounts of ghosts in Edinburgh but she soon meets someone like her who can see them. I have been missing Edinburgh lately so I figured reading a spooky, fun novel set in that very city would make me feel better. </span><br /><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>craven manor </i>by darcy coates</b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6G80OoBCclhP8mzBFizRDZVIC0Zt6HD8cAnNN1_YBmeoHtVJTxc7MLB5Ax9GI7SwUtNOdii_9jQ0lOOkQerGjz1_gYeaevxKq-jI8YDynX4GvXrIuD14j2Gt9TPDNxfHNC3OZtmbkcQ/s400/CR.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="263" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii6G80OoBCclhP8mzBFizRDZVIC0Zt6HD8cAnNN1_YBmeoHtVJTxc7MLB5Ax9GI7SwUtNOdii_9jQ0lOOkQerGjz1_gYeaevxKq-jI8YDynX4GvXrIuD14j2Gt9TPDNxfHNC3OZtmbkcQ/s320/CR.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I discovered a new-ish horror novelist, Darcy Coates, earlier this year and quickly devoured two of her books. It appears that she had previously self-published multiple books before being recently picked up by a traditional publisher. While her books are no masterpieces, I really enjoyed the fun and spooky stories set in haunted houses (my favorite trope). The next of her books I have my eye on is called <i>Craven Manor</i> and follows a man named Daniel who takes the position as a groundskeeper at Craven Manor. Daniel is desperate for a fresh start and views this new job and accompanying move as the perfect option. However, he soon realizes that the old, grand manor house is hiding something sinister. Daniel is not alone, but he does not know what exactly is living with him. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYIwfyxxbUOHsOBlgP9cjgkbrxMvMBbS55jh7qFndbaMGwu1GicEf8LLhGgrAcGjNAkO_lidYsOHpp1sHH0EnMHWqLg_WX0X-CyfAeaeDFogXOGQAThKwfutfNYz56BntkxtcJagHW_PE/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYIwfyxxbUOHsOBlgP9cjgkbrxMvMBbS55jh7qFndbaMGwu1GicEf8LLhGgrAcGjNAkO_lidYsOHpp1sHH0EnMHWqLg_WX0X-CyfAeaeDFogXOGQAThKwfutfNYz56BntkxtcJagHW_PE/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What books do you plan on reading this winter?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: right;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYm-Qh28SvKjZtSV6bzEmYyfGLpdYoyeiWu56ePpL5I0nZ8p653unq3-n4jpVSUg__yGoK69Zi8rY0GZ3bMpUygJ7za0ueUgPDP47CrnGGV5I6KopGUKHe62fR2aYytCi6ysr9qXCjVU/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaYm-Qh28SvKjZtSV6bzEmYyfGLpdYoyeiWu56ePpL5I0nZ8p653unq3-n4jpVSUg__yGoK69Zi8rY0GZ3bMpUygJ7za0ueUgPDP47CrnGGV5I6KopGUKHe62fR2aYytCi6ysr9qXCjVU/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></div></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-534771307313105972020-12-11T12:00:00.002-05:002020-12-11T13:15:15.462-05:00Comfort Reads<div><span><span face=""><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/04/comfort-reads.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb0FV1c-_2Nk4dsusFTBgBPYqLNF0370SmixRuMlIZk4x9H3wn9ThjdFeNfzgtFJ3RF037p5BgXtPhavoedRHPFJptZLUPSwsZYzyPbUF42BW89qBWJa0FBH_sVEjwz4TUvpSj4OFXiy8/s640/IMG_7175+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div><span><span face=""><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><div><span><span face=""><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></span></div>The past few months have been trying. Living through a pandemic is certainly a strain as daily life has been permanently altered. Many people are experiencing more anxiety and fear than they have previously. During quarantine, reading became a more popular activity due to the extra time on hand. What is more perfect than reading a comforting book that allows you to escape into another life for a while?<span style="color: red;"> </span>I have found myself reaching for some comforting books myself. These are the kind of novels that make you feel at home, where you are relaxed and at ease, which is precisely what we need right now.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></span><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>rules of civility </i>by amor towles</b></span><br /></span><span><span face=""><b style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10054335-rules-of-civility?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=h8XfQJ8L09&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq7MwlPg4fITPqtzT72Ap3E4ij5cmR4Qv-qiLcq6poARm5FBFeDxREeSBic8G_d2zR_wqDOUSiK1zNfAojVI1Cy3HLYY5HDs2lhl5zZhoUOnfzAVDchBjT2QKyKUtjiPVSngt2NHf1v50/s320/IMG_5993+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>The Rules of Civility </i>was an unexpected, pleasant surprise for me. Set in New York City during the 1930s, the story follows a young woman named Katey Kontent and how her life changes over the course of a year. Now, perhaps that sounds boring to you, but I promise that this novel will capture you in its witty prose and dynamic characters from the very first page. It is almost a study of life, of its twists and turns, and how singular, meaningless events can alter the course of your life. No story is more satisfying and no protagonist is more steadfast and clever. Amore Towles proves his talent and skill for story in this novel. And what is more comforting than a winding, dynamic story in the city that never sleeps? It will pull you in, transporting you to another time, another world, and in another person's shoes. That is the power of fiction.</span></span></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: courier;"><span><span face="" style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;"><b><i>the book of three</i> by lloyd alexander</b></span></span><br /></span>
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24780.The_Book_of_Three?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=RTHxEMN18E&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAa3HV81xXHy81KR8_Tfo1HFJahcslR2nkcLlBetR3EoJ7xiK6XQRf9Ioa9qnzQkduhWF42l4FgZhoyu9fBslDoo1GI7T0DUYlc13vRWnmP8n886p-xZMem_4KWHxqAgPfwotYT02PrFk/s320/IMG_6815+EDIT.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span><span face=""><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">I will never stop recommending this series because it is criminally underrated. <i>The Book of Three </i>is the first installment in the fantasy series known as the Prydain Chronicles. Middle grade is a fabulous place to find comfort due to its nostalgic nature. Even if you had not read that particular book or series as a child, the tone and characters whisk you away to simpler times. Lloyd Alexander's incredible tale follows Taran, a young pig-keeper raised by a reclusive sorcerer. But when his oracular pig runs away, Taran becomes entwined in a dangerous yet thrilling adventure to save his pig and his kingdom. Every time I pick up this book again, I feel as if I am returning home.</span> </span><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span face=""><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span face=""><b><br /></b></span></span><span><span face=""><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><i>endless night</i> by agatha christie</span></b></span></span><div><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span face=""><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span><span face=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: xx-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16366.Endless_Night?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=WFWKvgjh4g&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcBp0rRmBtWj6LxZRJ9NA1uIhBc8OgPt145DM7BQIfxNpaXY2todl3qGGMqGeE_GcDU5F_24X7_K7c54RZqyIyZKYzfiAEvh63Q1E7lxHsIEEtGnn-jCr8-vf5QNLyrUkHhtiPscLGN0o/w328-h219/IMG_4076+EDIT.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I have always been an Agatha Christie reader. She is the ultimate mystery author and one of her more unusual tales is <i>Endless Night</i>. You would probably not select a murder mystery as a comforting read--at least, not at first. However, this novel is unique because it is largely a dreamy romance set in the English countryside. Of course there are the eerie details of a gypsy's curse and a looming crime, but all of those only add to the intrigue and sweep you up in the story. You won't be able to take your eyes off the page. All Christie books are perfect for escaping from reality for a while, but this one especially so for how it turns the story on its head.</span><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><span face=""><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><i>once upon a river</i> by diane setterfield</b></span></span><div><span face="" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40130093-once-upon-a-river?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=qt0rFwD83n&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5GMIz6vBxQAAFX2wXgqhQE4C3-T_lY4Igzv1beWZZToV20kH6xPgsL7pwFIKgwN0s8cSr3Ay3DNh20Vqo2rJJqgj_3pzgoQn4x_e8YyFZWYavd1N83tER6bis8KLUAw9afzGa7KUjbb4/w328-h246/IMG-4560.JPG" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">If you wish to read a sweet, winding fairy tale with a dash of magic and a pinch of mystery, pick up <i>Once Upon a River</i>. This novel is a stand-alone magical realism book reminiscent of a folktale. One night in an inn on the Thames River, a man bursts through the door clutching a young drowned girl. At first, the girl is dead. She does not simply <i>appear</i> dead, she is confirmed as so by the local doctor. Yet, a couple hours following her arrival, she draws a breath. In a small town where storytelling is a passion, rumors run wild. Who is this girl and where did she come from? How is it that she came back to life and why won't she speak? It is a tale filled with whimsy and love, as well as some darkness. I challenge you to find a book more romantic in its writing than this one. You will fall in love with its myth and its atmosphere just as the characters fall for this strange little girl</span>. </span><br /><div><span face="" style="font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span face=""><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;">the secret history by donna tartt</span></b></span></div><div><span face=""><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span face=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29044.The_Secret_History?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=E9K5xLxydR&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ1_KIOJd0bwKgQgbRfpHEjfcxydq5lgK2cuuk6Zw5nWiQxTMvkaZwkZjqb7cqyx9HdjIJXUmqQhyphenhyphen1HLRTDaVkwdShNOcUFnBZwxahlOsfJ0vXEQwblqVJ6ofXCtCOhO3JGfukAOaoiZs/w328-h219/IMG_6668.JPG" width="328" /></a></div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>The Secret History </i>has made its name as a modern classic. Donna Tartt's mystery is set in rural, snowy Vermont and will surely inspire some cozy, content feelings in your heart. The story follows university student Richard after he transfers schools to the prestigious Vermont setting. Once there, he becomes enamored with an eclectic and mysterious group of classical studies students--a group that Richard tries and fails to enter at first. But after some persistence, he manages to gain acceptance into the course of study and begins making friends with the group. This is a tale of betrayal, secrets, friendship, and loyalty. Richard soon begins to realize that his friends and classmates are involved in darker hobbies than expected. How far will his love for them go?</span> </span><br /></span></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjy7am4wNyUUrUURpnhQexNEiwg7sIxGfMHzM0ZtjkbOj0E6oDtEYurAL-I2uJPBAiBzYFSOrJRJNHTyGoci0T5mH6QCcrNIFfF_JXLO2wJJqOQa4TN4z66yPXI2_YMKuzg0iAo1VjJK0/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjy7am4wNyUUrUURpnhQexNEiwg7sIxGfMHzM0ZtjkbOj0E6oDtEYurAL-I2uJPBAiBzYFSOrJRJNHTyGoci0T5mH6QCcrNIFfF_JXLO2wJJqOQa4TN4z66yPXI2_YMKuzg0iAo1VjJK0/s640/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;">What are your favorite comfort reads?</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXxEEvni4avXgaJGOnu94EstuphrOfRoNEnpDAyiviZrWv81ZaNmUhuLj_vE73y75M4FMdLwd4o0nvpCGJpUHYsswV9f-wfAKLXDkiANFoLKKLhxsuVfqJ2H91x2C-zqqG8J8giyT6KM/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXxEEvni4avXgaJGOnu94EstuphrOfRoNEnpDAyiviZrWv81ZaNmUhuLj_vE73y75M4FMdLwd4o0nvpCGJpUHYsswV9f-wfAKLXDkiANFoLKKLhxsuVfqJ2H91x2C-zqqG8J8giyT6KM/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div></span></div></span><br /></div></div></div></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-41777862901199098612020-10-30T12:00:00.006-04:002020-10-30T22:55:24.851-04:003 Movies I Have LOVED Recently<p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/10/3-movies-i-have-loved-recently.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6AeAhLrMytF-dEA3PEqy5ne7mYVG9WPqtVzSwcs4ghbPB6Ft3OnycLhRvYUKa_Rhr2zxuLm7jHFivwhEeBsKL77Gd39HBXGOxrZNgVNtdqfV8ptfv6hyHm9rMIZsfiJA9gJsiHSs9lGI/w640-h426/IMG_4011+edit.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Even with movie theaters still closed due to the pandemic, I have been watching tons of films. I love a good story--that's one of the reasons I adore reading so much. Movies are a perfect combination of my love of plot and photography (or cinematography). Between Netflix, Disney+, Redbox, and all of the other platforms available to rent or purchase movies on, there is no shortage of content to enjoy. Here are five spectacular movies to watch this weekend.</span><span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>the old guard</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQOIomA4HVEqSOLgBwptKp-ZFHZmAWcWhCkqwVbKL96Oq1t46eLU2jS1TsmPwqzGO2PO17HdsMe1AQc5bXWLMyjzW_OP65neZYQPuM4uMtocwRsyOcwxhe2NQJLYP2GP1db8QxCuYb5c/s1000/OG.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="675" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLQOIomA4HVEqSOLgBwptKp-ZFHZmAWcWhCkqwVbKL96Oq1t46eLU2jS1TsmPwqzGO2PO17HdsMe1AQc5bXWLMyjzW_OP65neZYQPuM4uMtocwRsyOcwxhe2NQJLYP2GP1db8QxCuYb5c/w222-h328/OG.jpg" width="222" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>The Old Guard </i>was a summer Netflix original movie based on the famed graphic novel series by the same name. <b>Starring Charlize Theron and a diverse cast, the story shares the lives of five immortals. </b>Andromache, known as Andy, is the eldest of the group and has been hardened by her long, long life. She is on the edge of giving up on humanity entirely when her comrades rope her into one last rescue mission to save a group of schoolchildren. However, they soon realize the mission is an elaborate trap and they escape on the run. A previously trusted ex-CIA agent and a pharmaceutical CEO are <b>hunting the immortals down. </b>They want to unlock the secrets hidden in their DNA to sell and use at their own discretion. To these centuries-old warriors, being captured and studied like lab rats is their worst fear. Although they cannot die, at least not often, they can still feel pain. As they embark on their chase, Andy and the group begin to see visions of another new immortal and they know they must reach her first. What makes <i>The Old Guard </i>so good is the skillful acting, the well-choreographed and heart-dropping action, as well as the <b>somber tale of a band of warriors that spend their many lifetimes protecting others.</b> But will the group be able to escape unharmed or will they be trapped forever in the clutches of those who hold little to no regard for their safety? I for one cannot wait for the sequel.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>knives out</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWqMQvgReT8aGNNZEu6CMsG2Bv83aaqtVVibMfT344uh8xoej5BbEooKsQ_AHLG5sHknwzTIoSOHXadhHmGFU8fwAIPVUR465QRNvmTvzJNZdcKr_azU1QVLpXhZ01cRFjUQ-NBIug2Y/s268/KO.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="182" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvWqMQvgReT8aGNNZEu6CMsG2Bv83aaqtVVibMfT344uh8xoej5BbEooKsQ_AHLG5sHknwzTIoSOHXadhHmGFU8fwAIPVUR465QRNvmTvzJNZdcKr_azU1QVLpXhZ01cRFjUQ-NBIug2Y/w228-h335/KO.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I know I am a bit of a latecomer to this party but I cannot resist mentioning this film. <i>Knives Out </i>is currently available on Amazon Prime. The film is an <b>eccentric mystery</b> centered around a wealthy family and their mystery author patriarch. Without giving away too much, since this is a mystery after all, I will say that the mystery begins when the patriarch is found one morning dead from apparent suicide. But someone is not buying the tale and hires a famous detective with unusual methods to investigate the death. No family member or friend is left out of the scrutiny. <b>But who did it, if anyone?</b> And which one of them will crack first? As a lifelong Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes fan, this film <b>reminds me of course of a classic novel.</b> As the stories interweave and characters' lies build up, the movie becomes more and more intense as the seconds pass. <i>Knives Out </i>features a star-studded cast including Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, and Jamie Lee Curtis. I found myself laughing and gasping all in one breath. The story is enticing and fun while having all the dark staples of murder and lies.</span></p><p> </p><p><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>john wick</b></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUQjzEql7zNMJUdasMUF9axnXctAhlo9caPxie9L3C2POV9iyf17qGwls4y4stycUqgmG65343xTREhBd4rzh9-2eT0KxGTv25BgdYatbzMcLFYuhqhWcLmynJR87oCoqoBCJuKUArH8/s268/JW.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="182" height="335" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDUQjzEql7zNMJUdasMUF9axnXctAhlo9caPxie9L3C2POV9iyf17qGwls4y4stycUqgmG65343xTREhBd4rzh9-2eT0KxGTv25BgdYatbzMcLFYuhqhWcLmynJR87oCoqoBCJuKUArH8/w228-h335/JW.jpg" width="228" /></a></div><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Listen, <b>I love Keanu Reeves.</b> He just seems like such a talented and wholesome person. Other than <i>The Matrix</i>, <i>John Wick </i>is probably his most popular film series. And wow, is this story enticing. The movie begins with John Wick's beloved wife's death. In his grief, John receives a late gift from her--a puppy. His wife did not want him to be alone in her absence. The tough and determined John, rife with loss, attempts to move on with his life. Until one evening when a group of men break into his home, steal his car, beat him, and kill his dog. These men had no clue the series of events they were setting in motion that night. For John Wick is no normal man: he is an ex-hit man and a highly skilled one at that. He is so feared in the crime underworld that they refer to him as the Boogeyman. After these men, the ringleader being the child of a Russian mafia boss, steal the last piece of his wife from him, John begins a mission to kill them all. <b>What would you do if the Boogeyman came after you? </b><i>John Wick</i> is heartfelt, exhilarating, and charming all at once. I cannot recall the last time I have seen an action film that has set my heart pounding in the same way. The movie explores not only John's revenge, but the assassin underground--including a hotel safe haven for assassins. The fight scenes did not make me dizzy with shaky cameras or an abundance of jump cuts. Rather, they reminded me of <i>Daredevil </i>with the long one-takes and smooth transitions. All in all, <i>John Wick </i>is <b>gritty and fun.</b> Watch it. </span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzIc5a6VDOMdoDMTclkEqABQ-gsfanhnO7fskD4KSQf3awoAFMPMrgjtaZiuAWpSTDfYLGBXOVW01oiKwaBCWw06GZbDiYH_6HWmnfOd3hH_JaPsIFshN7rEzgY5xeIQ61TvNdOJtNz0/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTzIc5a6VDOMdoDMTclkEqABQ-gsfanhnO7fskD4KSQf3awoAFMPMrgjtaZiuAWpSTDfYLGBXOVW01oiKwaBCWw06GZbDiYH_6HWmnfOd3hH_JaPsIFshN7rEzgY5xeIQ61TvNdOJtNz0/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>What movies have you watched recently?</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu-ycvNXuA4cqIKRzIix6N5wgoR0xkb-nUpvljvxjRzJ-9RtKqXy0fTmyKYfejfGJAdlU8WVY0R-stCM9ld4CVCnUUXwPPBvCJIS1c58SOsA928i6p0AjQj-N1eWQoZoOrTvzR8bhL78/s238/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwu-ycvNXuA4cqIKRzIix6N5wgoR0xkb-nUpvljvxjRzJ-9RtKqXy0fTmyKYfejfGJAdlU8WVY0R-stCM9ld4CVCnUUXwPPBvCJIS1c58SOsA928i6p0AjQj-N1eWQoZoOrTvzR8bhL78/w200-h68/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></span></div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span><p></p>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-66928699725365366332020-10-16T12:00:00.002-04:002020-10-19T19:30:47.045-04:00Best Book Couples<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/10/best-book-couples.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLi94C-O0w6XOajWNZRjAHnJPUfvKfoDbQakbwe5lBTKqZgtELG4t2OdjcREbF0jSa98iFuRLiZi6Swr-wqIb70Kx1PVbkyThG8Ha-RqdyLDBlFSoEkm1Ic1GC1-4LmxSF69n-dUk_QyY/s640/IMG_7170+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I would not dub myself as a "romantic," per say. Romance as a genre is one I tend to avoid. Plots with magic and action appeal to me more than those centered around a relationship. However, I am human, and there are some couples in my favorite books that I simply adore. We all have those couples that we root for or "ship." I suppose you could say this is a list of my fictional OTPs. <span></span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p><p><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></p><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: courier;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">gideon and harrow</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b style="font-family: courier;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://foleypdx.tumblr.com/post/190507977517/one-flesh-one-end-so-i-finished-gideon-the" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="810" data-original-width="524" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkERVybeDvlV_AvU1vW9Qsp0Mnk0RpKJSiMH9e59g-RNJ0o_QEcSdaHjmBGIgVq5fRyUaTQyG6ewIjCLz7RTuFs59bFLMvkR7MUivwz7FWAq5H62H9EnbFMaSDq2vHoQrZHlG0b0SkJuE/w265-h410/gid.jpg" width="265" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">If you have read the fabulous and strange <i>Gideon the Ninth</i>, I am sure you loved the hate-to-somewhat love relationship between Harrow and Gideon the Ninth. I still need to pick up the recently released sequel, <i>Harrow the Ninth</i>, and I am so excited to dive back into this world and into their fun relationship dynamic. If you are looking for a book about lesbian necromancers in space, this is the novel for you. I mean, doesn't that just sound divine? <i>Gideon the Ninth</i> follows Gideon, a young warrior and member of the Ninth House of necromancy. Gideon and Harrow, bonewitch and the heir to the throne, have had a rivalry since childhood. When Gideon attempts to escape the Ninth House, Harrow foils her plans and makes her an offer: her freedom in exchange for acting as her cavalier in an upcoming event. The Emperor, founder and leader of the houses, has invited the leaders to participate in a game with a chance at becoming an immortal servant of the Emperor. But this game and its location are not what anyone expected and soon proves to hold more danger and secrets than you could imagine. It is witty, action-packed, and one of the best novels I read in 2020. A good hate-to-love relationship will always pull me in and the one between Gideon and Harrow was especially interesting. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>achilles and patroclus</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWUyXeKk6EiL7broat2XjyYCjbPZcHfvkNhPJTK2ePBQf6ME1vJNykqf_AYoyMD1P8KZvL3xguuzuqqCzBlUva4JGTrWQkWglmvhyphenhyphenExLNSaot_U9HQ6wQm5FbpTSShQ-gzTC_wINcL3Q/s1024/ac.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="866" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWUyXeKk6EiL7broat2XjyYCjbPZcHfvkNhPJTK2ePBQf6ME1vJNykqf_AYoyMD1P8KZvL3xguuzuqqCzBlUva4JGTrWQkWglmvhyphenhyphenExLNSaot_U9HQ6wQm5FbpTSShQ-gzTC_wINcL3Q/w277-h328/ac.jpg" width="277" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I suppose you could point to the <i>Iliad</i> as evidence to appreciate Achilles and Patroclus' relationship. Popular modern opinion has finally tended to agree on the romantic nature to their relationship as evidenced in the ancient text. But in Madeline Miller's <i>The</i> <i>Song of Achilles</i>, she made the romance explicit. Admittedly, their story made me melt and nearly cry. The transition from friendship to romance is seamless and natural. The care they hold for each other is one of the sweetest things I have ever read. In Madeline Miller's depiction, Achilles and Patroclus share a love that even the gods would be jealous of. While their story may be tragic, it is well worth telling. It is a familiar story told in a new, more direct way. Honestly, this one just may be my favorite. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>kaz and inej</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rosiethorns88/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrEB73vFzwUGgZeVqNEKcMA7Uicm0L-_XeiPv6uDBsOLJgltGe4EUgzf_GJ1h-UrspeiHxMPnSRQEbm9JwbWXIEly49iI0ncJVmjx1VHjO6TjtrhwR-k_QgbwNg5sqQRvgG9pOCZVg1nQ/w262-h328/kax.jpg" width="262" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Leigh Bardugo's <i>Six of Crows</i> duology features a wide cast of characters. I love each one of the main characters (I even named my car after Nina) but I hold a particular fondness for Kaz and Inej. <i>Six of Crows</i> is set in a magical world with powerful people called Grisha who can manipulate different aspects of the natural world, such as the human body or water. But Grisha and the entire world are being threatened by the development of a drug that can heighten a Grisha's abilities to a dangerous extreme. The trade of this drug threatens to topple society and the economy worldwide. Kaz's group of criminals is hired to pull off an impossible heist: infiltrate the fortified Ice Court across the ocean and rescue the inventor, scientist Bo Yul-Bayur. If the group can pull this off, they would receive the biggest payday of their lives, and for some of them, much more than that. Kaz and Inej are very different people and their relationship is complicated but so satisfying. Their slow burn romance develops amidst betrayal, terror, and death. Nothing is better than witnessing them learning to care for each other in spite of, or perhaps because of, their traumas and faults.</span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>will and tessa</b></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.deviantart.com/taratjah/art/Can-I-Have-This-Dance-592882132" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="500" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGqgLcx9iRwDVGN4Gk_HrbKfL8q2Ro7OG6_SLKhRu1kbjcmz2rB8BvRwVNAuUo0hjCCa2PghN3X_FlBWRu4_AsIbkp-dT2VSda1BfuCscXn89AyeBrB_PaAvgT5FFqnvEyKT5y9EcfJfI/w243-h328/wes.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">No one writes an angst-ridden or star-crossed romance like Cassandra Clare. If you have read her second Shadowhunter series, <i>The Infernal Devices</i>, you became subject to the world's best love triangle. As much as I adored both pairings in this triangle, I, like everyone else, had a favorite. I always rooted for Tessa and Will to end up together. Their story begins in <i>Clockwork Angel </i>when Will helps rescue Tessa from the dark witches who were holding her hostage for their employer. You see, Tessa has a unique shape shifting ability. The shadowhunters, a race of nephilim born to battle demons, take her in. But her captors refuse to let her go so easily and soon they are all involved in a battle greater than they could have imagined. Their relationship was not an easy love, but certainly was a passionate one. I will always love their pairing. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>vasya and morozko</b></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B8ou3RXFESW/?igshid=z2oknsgy3nxm" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1350" data-original-width="1080" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH_0Bk50Oq-OErnSdszVihXGMh39WOxIDqCsWFRIaZtf3iv5jUUhHw3Zmb6aykqYVoCq40gRpbBiVN0fvuFLah6fpeLvvCyiGcFO0fCutGDhRziRoocX1mUa37FVzhhTPEopAMfW98rAA/w263-h328/vA.jpg" width="263" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>The Bear and the Nightingale</i> does not place an emphasis on the romance yet it is alluring all the less. Katherine Arden's novel is set in the wilds of Russia and follows the life of young and unusual Vasya. After her birth, a strange man approaches Vasya's father and gives him a necklace for his daughter. This strange man is no other than the god of death and winter, Morozko. You see, Vasya is no normal child. She can see the old spirits of the house and of nature. But her new stepmother and local priest are forcing the old religion out to make way for devout Christianity. But without upkeeping the old traditions, the spirits begin to weaken and an older, more dangerous force begins to stir. Will Vasya and Morozko be able to stop this evil from awakening and save Russia? The two have a strange yet fond relationship. Despite all the odds stacked against them, you see their love flourish throughout the series. </span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXcw-GAF-rNE_fHAhURB_K2ZVaEnvAzli1-H35QVt9HmK1ZXHJY_OSEj-7BEoAS1EEKx0Cgef4kwVVhoC72SHQ9VMNXxmF9tfO9tzNRECc-vu2xTQjQC8XKz1ILNaT4Pk66apbScQiuM/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMXcw-GAF-rNE_fHAhURB_K2ZVaEnvAzli1-H35QVt9HmK1ZXHJY_OSEj-7BEoAS1EEKx0Cgef4kwVVhoC72SHQ9VMNXxmF9tfO9tzNRECc-vu2xTQjQC8XKz1ILNaT4Pk66apbScQiuM/s640/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>Do you have any favorite fictional couples?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLgpGo2_nr0e-8wPpdsseLhmS7dknK6Y3CNA3T-xoz6oCZiJQ7_-CiL_YLurbCqh-S9VN0L1dKPcF-UmxYDVoTNN74ccu2dMweoXvi53-EWuCUcN8m8xqqNnRbBhzBaJPuL-lGnq5Xkxs/s238/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLgpGo2_nr0e-8wPpdsseLhmS7dknK6Y3CNA3T-xoz6oCZiJQ7_-CiL_YLurbCqh-S9VN0L1dKPcF-UmxYDVoTNN74ccu2dMweoXvi53-EWuCUcN8m8xqqNnRbBhzBaJPuL-lGnq5Xkxs/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div><b><br /></b></span></div></span></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-34054498876532615322020-10-02T12:00:00.002-04:002020-10-02T17:04:13.416-04:00The Best Middle Grade Book Series for All Ages<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/07/the-best-middle-grade-book-series-for.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFPvw1WQ7dZfpWPuBuujM958vTrd9OCxKAtiECCuitbCVjd-bA8N_Bvvgy0_1t1RkcJfmOHW5F97hze14Kcu2SoQZcupnyqR801-Rs6-GaqVKgfUWAyVSnzpPXDhcNOKR7mAMY1Kdltw8/s640/IMG_6517+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><div><span face=""helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><br /></span></div>We all have those books we read as a child and have held dearly in our hearts ever since. These are the books and memories that we look back on fondly. Yet, some middle grade or children's book series are entirely enjoyable at any age. I read some of these as a kid, yes, but some I read as a teen or an adult. My older age did not diminish my adoration for these books. Everyone, old, young, or somewhere in between, can read and appreciate these ones.</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span><br /><font color="#9fc5e8" face="courier" size="5"><b><i>magyk </i>by angie sage</b></font></span><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/769483.Magyk?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=gVbGV164wd&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPPOMOsMGohrFT9E5eNvcAn7D-Z0f33uVxU55aMLNR4QaSXUL3-FrMEOryLwdpgZ3bruDdy9l0y74Cjo5xf7KuHc82iBm2vDGv98-lUtTwgZYFRMHMxndufXnhqy0SZJlSc76uW3no-aU/w328-h219/IMG_4211+EDIT.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I recall the first time I read <i>Magyk</i>. I was ten years old and fresh off my Harry Potter obsession. Like the other magical series, this one is a seven book fantasy series filled with mystery and a cast of beloved characters. But don't be fooled: <i>Magyk</i> is not a HP copycat. The novel follows the fate of two young children. Septimus Heap, the fated seventh son of a seventh son, was whisked away at his birth after being wrongfully pronounced dead. That same night, his father finds a baby girl abandoned in the snow. Amidst the loss of their child, the Heap family decides to take in the young girl and name her Jenna. But what is their new daughter's true identity and whatever happened to their lost son? The mysteries will collide and drive the family on a wild adventure filled with potions, charms, and dark forces.<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span><br /></span><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><font color="#9fc5e8" face="courier" size="5"><b><i>the book of three</i> by lloyd alexander</b></font></span></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><span><font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24780.The_Book_of_Three?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=Lr2iviOy9b&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyrxh9tZ1D2-GswNk0g2abRk88KZEGoIY9NkGW8NGSqn9qSbKD5vTPlpW3gL8T6ET2dUjTy1RzNEyODxueOVNDZKrvi82UCRjrnQGNFZOBeoRCeveVm7thVJbdwc_AeyXIX5HZ-vv6AA4/w328-h219/IMG_4232+EDIT.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I am trying not to play favorites, but The Prydain Chronicles is undoubtedly the best series on this list. This is an older classic that does not get nearly the amount of love it deserves. The enthralling world, the characters, and the writing combine to create a wondrous tale of bravery, identity, and friendship like no other. If you are going to read any of these books, choose this one. <i>The Book of Three</i> follows a young pig keep and orphan named Taran. Raised by a reclusive old wizard, Taran dreams of becoming a hero. He may have his chance when Hen Wen, the oracular pig, goes missing. In his quest to find the magical pig, Taran collects an unlikely band of companions to fight the Horned King and the forces of evil to save not only Hen Wen, but the kingdom.<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></font></span></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><i>the lightning</i> thief by rick riordan</span></b></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><span><font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28187.The_Lightning_Thief?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=7GhK2IFqgW&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCRKgF7ParJvSb2BrWapf4WMpCtbN5PkkQ_tKJqXk9Ag32ov_Jo6ZpPDz_ekXEUNgZm9bg66rYCxLkK8xJcr9q1qCaSATSRdL48iC_7UV31wsAF5H88zmjc03-QOmy2iTsb_IzUHTndB0/w328-h219/IMG_7221+EDIT.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">If you have yet to read the Percy Jackson series, what have you been doing with your life? I have been rereading this childhood favorite recently and have fallen in love all over again. <i>The Lightning Thief</i> is set in a world where the Greek gods of old still exist. Young Percy soon finds out a secret his mother has kept from his his entire life: his father is none other than Poseidon, making Percy a demigod. His identity puts him in a world of trouble as he is hunted by mythical monsters. Knowing she now has no choice, Percy's mother sends him to Camp Half-Blood, a hidden camp for young demigods. However, in the desperate race to deliver him safely to camp, his mother is taken after a vicious duel with the minotaur. To find his mother again, Percy must venture on a treacherous quest to reach the Underworld and prevent a civil war from breaking out among the gods.<span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></font></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><i><br /></i></b></font></span></div><div><span><font color="#9fc5e8" face="courier" size="5"><b><i>harry potter and the sorcerer's stone</i> by j.k. rowling</b></font></span></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><span><font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3.Harry_Potter_and_the_Sorcerer_s_Stone?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=ijBfj9onoP&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6dMaGrGNYfaj71l25rKqWiGQi-UEWpyLuh5VZq16q-vllDMn3BhRPJJFdSEVmX7ofxL6OTgAPRYQD1VcK6mMHQUNWaHJognAuGHiz0TJ1_Yx7dB0X5xtrD1-Lyope16Uoa46qxgjUYaM/w328-h219/IMG_0428.JPG" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Listen, everyone in the world knows about Harry Potter. Most people have read it or watched the movies. It would be a shame not to include it on this list considering my own childhood love of it and the enormous impact it has made on many generations. I still go back to this series more than a decade after first reading it. In case you don't know what this story is about (although, how could you not by now?), the first book follows eleven year old Harry Potter and his discovery that he is in fact a wizard. He soon leaves his abusive aunt and uncle's home to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. However, dark forces from his past are stirring. As an infant, Harry's parents were murdered by the dark wizard, Voldemort, who then attempted to kill Harry, as well. But he failed and disappeared that night, making Harry the only one in history to survive the killing curse. But what if Voldemort wasn't truly gone?</span></font></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><span><font color="#9fc5e8" face="courier" size="5"><b><i>the alchemyst</i> by michael scott</b></font></span></div><div><span><font face="courier" size="5"><b><br /></b></font></span></div><div><span><font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17402605-the-alchemyst?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=iXpn7vfOTo&rank=2" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBV-eVUyhFVNhGBZj8gUICDPAEYo7N04fDWyyEJfaaWBK9xF3d7BGhBDllJHXAQVOLuNVwjcKpr3QyaJZxjYxNNsBIsCHTs9hvNVL3xu2Wp35YUNSZ0MBD4djlFpD9Ip78iIctDnL0UE/w328-h219/IMG_4206+EDIT.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">This series is another one I read back when I was in its target demographic. But anyone, young or old, can enjoy this series. <i>The Alchemyst </i>is another fantasy series following none other than Nicholas Flamel. Although records indicate his death in the 15th century, Flamel and his wife, Perenelle, did indeed find the secret to eternal life. Flamel carries this secret hidden within a book called The Book of Abraham the Mage. Over the centuries, he has made it his task to protect this book at all costs because its contents could destroy the world. Dr. John Dee has chased the Flamels across time and continents attempting to steal the book. In the modern age, prophecy indicates that young twins Sophie and Josh are the key to saving the world.</span></font></span></div><div><span><font size="5"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></font></span></div><div><span><font size="5"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></font></span></div><div><span><font><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVr3-2S24CmUpFOkwD_Vm1cT4L5rxwv3U49Q3wNV7dMNcMCbmJxyiN0iKmoAT1OG1uPnklY2TWHZrd4tYwO_MZrxDJa2Wi8iZQhBluYVF8OUx_9oZF0pnTkle15hbbzqcwp-aqSjObpQ/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVr3-2S24CmUpFOkwD_Vm1cT4L5rxwv3U49Q3wNV7dMNcMCbmJxyiN0iKmoAT1OG1uPnklY2TWHZrd4tYwO_MZrxDJa2Wi8iZQhBluYVF8OUx_9oZF0pnTkle15hbbzqcwp-aqSjObpQ/s640/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><span><div style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b>What are your favorite middle grade books?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfSUD904m-QO0hFj6DDZKWNCRktk3Iwnt0v26su7OKj9QnwZ_KdWQWkIQsmDLvT0rNcd_hb2d1RCdZZlORb59p-ctWzTSuLsTOb2CKtGWKcAW8t5vTpkkUjfp_AQcyUwi971IsNHEjKQ/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfSUD904m-QO0hFj6DDZKWNCRktk3Iwnt0v26su7OKj9QnwZ_KdWQWkIQsmDLvT0rNcd_hb2d1RCdZZlORb59p-ctWzTSuLsTOb2CKtGWKcAW8t5vTpkkUjfp_AQcyUwi971IsNHEjKQ/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div></span></div></span></font></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-59194466529982759042020-09-18T12:00:00.003-04:002020-09-23T22:26:25.274-04:002020...a Look on the Positive Side<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/09/2020a-look-on-positive-side.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhib1puuMyx2sdpFSc3dTrNt3jP8L_P-si-N2lnhCSdxzDeLvsTDAGAPh1GPKmz76zQPOQxzqVJXNP3guNTzr8B_7usaSSCZot9vgOoYzpBAVFqQpPRUGF3TBOYASEJFkLg7XLJJAfw1mA/s640/IMG_4356+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><div style="font-size: xx-large;"><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><span style="font-size: medium;">At the start of this year, we dreamed of a fresh beginning for a new decade. People joked about a Roaring Twenties repeat and moving forward with good intentions. We were going to grab onto life and march decidedly into the coming year. In January, I left on my first international flight alone to study abroad for a semester in Edinburgh, Scotland. Two and a half months later, the pandemic was hitting us in full swing and I got called home to the USA. All of my upcoming travel and study plans were tossed out of the window. Thus began months of ongoing quarantine. I suppose this year did not go as intended, huh?</span><span><a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: medium;">I won't pretend to be an overly positive person. My glass is certainly not half full. But within the absolute train wreck this year has been, I wanted to highlight some good things that came out of it.</span></span><span style="font-size: xx-large;"> </span></span><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhac5IV99B_WZoRnCM_ce9kMb8aj4POdx2BsHfvS02RaZkIwTtKCny6NYol2agR579kCf5jhiPDumMahZJsMu0TS5iMTXRZHyRIU0hxrU7xWib26dltnQANPbpRBz8WbEFQ66s7snpsm1U/s2048/IMG_5343.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhac5IV99B_WZoRnCM_ce9kMb8aj4POdx2BsHfvS02RaZkIwTtKCny6NYol2agR579kCf5jhiPDumMahZJsMu0TS5iMTXRZHyRIU0hxrU7xWib26dltnQANPbpRBz8WbEFQ66s7snpsm1U/s640/IMG_5343.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><span><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>pollution & environmental impacts dropped</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Due to everyone being stuck inside, humanity's negative effects on the environment dipped. Carbon emissions and air pollution decreased as people stayed home and businesses shut. Our suffering revealed the damage we were inflicting on our Earth and how large of an impact we really do have on our environments. Perhaps now we can all make a better effort to protecting our world.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">online community</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">As in-person activities ceased, businesses and celebrities took to the internet to continuing sharing, selling, and cultivating communities. Famous chefs created at-home cooking videos, musical artists posted online concerts, and movies released digitally right to our screens at home. A favorite memory from this quarantine was walking down the empty Colonial Williamsburg on Saturday evenings with my family. We happened upon a colonial worker/actor that lived down in one of the historical homes and was live-streaming a folk-song concert in his garden. We paused to watch and listen as he performed. It was a small moment, but brought such peace and joy to such uncertain times.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>animal crossing: new horizons</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Like everyone else, I had been anxiously awaiting the new Animal Crossing game release. The drop could not have come at a better time. Just as the virus forced everyone inside, a calming game where you could explore, garden, fish, and interact with villagers came to get us through it. Animal Crossing became a new trend with everyone posting their islands and their progress. The game, which has always been a personal favorite of mine, brought peace and happiness to all of its players when they desperately needed it. And yes, I am still avidly playing it nearly every single day.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAgOX9KP8GI1qOnPbUaR_zbedSQplSTOV_RNN9C_vvlCTXIRJ20rmcPwudw-L9wwdaSNlXwGK017bBY7DbVyCURqQm6p18WQYjds6h-3ZWXAAr9MD36A1UDzb3DN_ObcJl8JRP-F2v8A/s2048/IMG_4887.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAgOX9KP8GI1qOnPbUaR_zbedSQplSTOV_RNN9C_vvlCTXIRJ20rmcPwudw-L9wwdaSNlXwGK017bBY7DbVyCURqQm6p18WQYjds6h-3ZWXAAr9MD36A1UDzb3DN_ObcJl8JRP-F2v8A/s640/IMG_4887.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">everyone learns how to bake</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Other than reading and writing, baking is one of my passions. I love making cakes, pastries, cookies, or anything under the sun. Being stuck inside at home gave people ample time to learn how to create delicious masterpieces. I have loved seeing everyone's creations online as they, too, experience the joy of baking (and the joy of eating desserts).</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>embracing the slow life</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Listen, I am an introvert and savor my precious alone time. As much as I adore traveling and trying new things, I can be quite the homebody. Spending a day in my bed reading and watching Netflix sounds like a dream come true. I am a perfectionist with many hobbies, a job, and a chemistry degree to work on. I don't tend to have much time to relax and take it slow. So in a way, this quarantine has forced me and many others to appreciate the slow life. The pressure of productivity and jumping from one project to the next lessened or disappeared. When is the last time you paused? Smelled the roses? Also, I certainly don't mind requirements that people must stay away from me at all time.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ24aGtK5dMRqwUAEuaZtotmTAUGLaQqjnJeE8BfvwFiADRdTT0RPqCh46jTtNpUByHWDXl5lCIjewrceDIt_yYGNaXv00q76Bd0aiM46XXFQHTDd0wrw72JXGqiM9mjCfZ6IcTgjIe7I/s2048/IMG_3016+EDIT.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ24aGtK5dMRqwUAEuaZtotmTAUGLaQqjnJeE8BfvwFiADRdTT0RPqCh46jTtNpUByHWDXl5lCIjewrceDIt_yYGNaXv00q76Bd0aiM46XXFQHTDd0wrw72JXGqiM9mjCfZ6IcTgjIe7I/s640/IMG_3016+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">The pandemic has not been a blessing. COVID has caused the death and pain of many, as well as exacerbated outstanding political and humanitarian issues. I am not saying that this virus has been a totally positive experience and I certainly wish it had never happened at all. My life, along with everyone else's, has been drastically altered for the time being. No "new normal" is in sight for the USA yet, either. But, I am attempting to be positive for once. In all unfortunate circumstances are some kernels of light and those are what will get us through the darkness. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8kJI3R5zFIS5VuccYRTSUeh_JcfMHgfxF0UPt9C-rPg7At2FpuCbJjTTYfMXthCRVJYpk11XYICm8O1pPyBYKH6jVFp2WqZKKxBOlof6G7Yb35Yx-8sqrKxJ-gW-ApXoNM4e3lsziOM/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN8kJI3R5zFIS5VuccYRTSUeh_JcfMHgfxF0UPt9C-rPg7At2FpuCbJjTTYfMXthCRVJYpk11XYICm8O1pPyBYKH6jVFp2WqZKKxBOlof6G7Yb35Yx-8sqrKxJ-gW-ApXoNM4e3lsziOM/s640/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b>What is something good that has happened to you in quarantine?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsfDTO2cpzD0pEHVdmPa-SUvEziXztPOpYqI5cJeNEtGh7WLWm1YXQLhsOiJmBgdXVWy17s0NQoD-oowLr54PBxEgBsAqKFHMtMcxMKYwe9cqylgTsrGGZnOIhPcxVTseErCoXZ6zf7Q/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCsfDTO2cpzD0pEHVdmPa-SUvEziXztPOpYqI5cJeNEtGh7WLWm1YXQLhsOiJmBgdXVWy17s0NQoD-oowLr54PBxEgBsAqKFHMtMcxMKYwe9cqylgTsrGGZnOIhPcxVTseErCoXZ6zf7Q/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div></span></div><div><br /></div></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-26267226542263000192020-09-04T12:00:00.003-04:002020-09-23T22:29:29.516-04:00Autumn Reading List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/09/autumn-reading-list.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2c32AF1ZjEXO5Zpz5WSVDzYS1BsLubU3UdeImeoM5Wp8nIfwihQUueCEcApQyH_dF3_AKpv3zmJ32QaxtgVpEZ5Rvd-BEb0rMKTif_NVFPvh_KpAjQ-E5OX_GWztMy0fguycw5rXkrw/s640/IMG_7195.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Autumn: the season of campfires, pumpkins, and sweaters. It is a time for cozying up in bed with a good book or settling down with popcorn to watch a scary movie. Summer fades into world of Halloween, schoolwork, and spices. The heat will linger until the first fall chill chases it away for the rest of the year. Personally, I love autumn. I cannot wait to enjoy a good s'more and bake some pumpkin cupcakes. As usual, I am sharing a short list of books I hope to read this season. With my university work I never know when I will have time for reading but I still try to make it a priority when I can.</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span><a name='more'></a></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8;"><br /></span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">the haunting of ashburn house</span><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30646488-the-haunting-of-ashburn-house?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=ooqrT6036e&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="316" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKdwykkVKb1jC_xjqgz3fyPf5jKGlTzW1WIK0mZ7ipPzWJ4ZXRS-8ziSvLv2ys4i423-A28pc1TuIKKSVYiH7owwxJTGaKG-8F5CTu-WksjNCWJWy9mnEmRYeWMXRkfUvduNWxFjAVYVQ/w202-h304/hoa.jpg" width="202" /></a></div></span><p style="text-align: left;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium; font-weight: normal;">What a great time of year to read a horror novel. Other than Stephen King, I have a difficult time finding scary books. On a recent visit to the bookstore I found an entire shelf of supernatural books by this author and became ecstatic. Finally, I had found a cache of ghost books to read. Hopefully this one will impress me. <i>The Haunting of Ashburn House</i> is set in a haunted house (my favorite) and follows its newest inheritor, Adrienne. Due to financial struggles, she decides to move into Ashburn house. Although she does not believe in ghosts, the strange and threatening events that occur in the home may change her point of view.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></p></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">starsight</span> </b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43936287-starsight" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="316" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTxKNb12SosXLqBu9XyrhM-giOKp9PszxQQzj-I730U5sLmYwGHk_y0apnUWpssLzrdrNGPJzXKjaAgShlOwFC3dD-IEZoMEklTxxlaBx06nv-zKSdBRij1DNSll6kfzkEShQxXHkxAxg/w202-h304/star.jpg" width="202" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;"><i>Starsight </i>is a holdover from my summer reading list, one I did not manage to get to but still very much want to read soon. This Brandon Sanderson novel is the sequel to his YA science fiction series, <i>Skyward</i>. I read and adored the first novel back in the springtime and have been itching to pick up the next volume ever since. <i>Skyward</i> follows a young girl named Spensa that dreams of becoming a pilot to defend her people and planet from an antagonistic race of aliens. However, she is the daughter of a traitor and her family has been branded as cowards ever since. To make it as a pilot and prove herself, as well as clear her father's name, she will have to fight. It is action-packed and has a rich fictional world.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: large;"><b>the huntress</b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40245700-the-huntress?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=hu1ZnVpTLh&rank=3" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="346" data-original-width="231" height="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1xgZ9ZL0wyRzyI9oYDDF4Yq9SjXtTugMm3GwV8lF096gdc-yhtgpytmoZyicd4nFYqJ_6xMBetSvH4kBiyitogPtJ9RdJUPjbWa2doRsrJRdstaRCEtpb6n_YJIbDD00jsCDB0CWSkOo/w231-h346/hunt.jpg" width="231" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I have been eyeing this novel since its release in 2019. Recently, I found it for six dollars (yes, you read that correctly) in Barnes & Noble and could not resist picking it up. <i>The Huntress </i>shows the aftermath of WWII by following three different characters. Nina Markova, a Soviet Union woman, joins a fleet of all-female bomber pilots and soon finds herself stranded behind enemy lines. The infamous Huntress, a Nazi assassin, is intent on killing her. Ian Graham is a British war correspondent turned Nazi hunter. He has made it his goal to capture the Huntress and punish her for her crimes. Finally, American teen Jordan McBride has set her sights on becoming a photographer when her father returns home with a German fiance in tow. But Jordan does not trust her new stepmother.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">harrow the ninth</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39325105-harrow-the-ninth?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=M3RKdWLmIi&rank=5" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="304" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYwrtzKnNDjpUpzhamW2yWZ3D6x8YhZ3e_rNsaE2Jc_wMdOLX-d6CEGyEDHZgEA8r-O31EaMQ98ZdS6mkHoV4cdXqRFiQZgL4E0921pXPIltq9HVhOugyCh_T3tO-8gnw8PxG7ep1058/w243-h364/harr.jpg" width="243" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">Here is another Summer holdover. <i>Harrow the Ninth</i>, the anticipated sequel to <i>Gideon the Ninth</i>, only released on August fourth. I cannot wait to delve into this world again. <i>Gideon the Ninth</i> will certainly be on my 2020 favorites list, as well as my all-time favorites list at that. The first book followed Gideon, a warrior and member of the ninth house of necromancy. She wants nothing more than to escape a life of skeletons, secrets, and the haughty heir to the Ninth House, Harrow. After squandering Gideon's escape attempts, Harrow promises her freedom in exchange for acting as her cavalier in a new quest. The Emperor, the legendary leader of the nine houses, has called all the heirs together to play a dangerous game of wit and daring. Whoever wins will ascend to immortality and become a servant of the Emperor and bask in glory for eternity.</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><br /></b></div><div><b style="font-family: courier;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: large;">the city of brass</span></b></div><div><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32718027-the-city-of-brass?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=pAKK9Vx8Fg&rank=1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="309" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKEmV9pE6EHBJRk-dJ_FQzTlWragBoIjAHVdnWG1GDVfrt4pmlEMrGbJIF9KXQICwZelF2oLVGTgQFn4kPKCEYIE7XDM1EaqGWEsCYhUtK4hLXN2QWwWzzgh5v5y7gSbA_wWSjN0Cqg8/w247-h380/brass.jpg" width="247" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: medium;">I purchased <i>The City of Brass</i> last Summer on a trip to Portland. It has been sitting on my bookshelf gathering dust ever since, which is a right shame. I have heard nothing but amazing things about this Middle Eastern-inspired high fantasy novel. The story centers around Nahri, a con woman on the streets of 18th century Cairo. She does not believe in magic--not at first. But when she accidentally summons a djinn warrior, she must accept that magic is indeed very real. Together they set on a quest to find the fabled City of Brass that holds the six djinn tribes. However, dangerous enchantments and a cutthroat court await them in the city. Can Nahri make it out alive?</span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"> </span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6-6va9yD1uzMJTCzjGOYyZgW_NUN5YnR0F79y-yKLkbZswlnE4vo7A_bFlMxbYzfW-nWUmk0D8flzEwVhwXrLaC_mQgzjD0YpgIBk-8qHV8w8dlDCbESgiZKgqewZy9_AWkt7NxSdwA/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB6-6va9yD1uzMJTCzjGOYyZgW_NUN5YnR0F79y-yKLkbZswlnE4vo7A_bFlMxbYzfW-nWUmk0D8flzEwVhwXrLaC_mQgzjD0YpgIBk-8qHV8w8dlDCbESgiZKgqewZy9_AWkt7NxSdwA/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b>What is on your autumn reading list?</b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQAHbAN8Wqh5ssJhqsU8Y6_qTlmpI4XCTYchisX7ho4q7mtz4UiVStxYTDMqSD7KEjYDJ14nPmwMjTUUXF1ST5uQ9O-Tpho3LeGciHbBU4clIYtkJPZVxdZ9zxq7Qtj1WEl5WP3eWdyE/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYQAHbAN8Wqh5ssJhqsU8Y6_qTlmpI4XCTYchisX7ho4q7mtz4UiVStxYTDMqSD7KEjYDJ14nPmwMjTUUXF1ST5uQ9O-Tpho3LeGciHbBU4clIYtkJPZVxdZ9zxq7Qtj1WEl5WP3eWdyE/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div></span></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-34906852012606783252020-08-21T12:00:00.006-04:002020-08-21T13:14:23.095-04:00The Most Annoying Book Characters of All Time<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/05/the-most-annoying-book-characters-of.html" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE8_Q7Up8NYsbU_zNqxgkzSUbJhMrROLOq6cFvi6KnsZtIUr91xcPhGUEgo32CMVduVqn_4T2DndvPgTRnq0jFs9UmmzuaXgraSR756H8j6P6gnYDdKKS_KzcokayVckIjaccNoJOI64o/s640/IMG_7165.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>Do you ever become so annoyed at a character that you want to throw the book against the wall? Or maybe punch said character in the face if only to knock some sense into them? Honestly, a character can make or break a book. Some books feature such amazing, interesting characters that I can't help but be pulled in. But some have protagonists that I find to be so infuriating that it makes reading the book nearly impossible. Also, this is all in jest so if I mention one of your favorite characters, don't worry! We all just have different preferences.</span><br />
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<span face="" style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>america singer</b></span><span face="" style="font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRvTFVT1zggYZt8BEA-kEvvvaDxvvvqFV8MY9y-eX8lGb-YMoE1SqyBk3jIh8nFjWOoBcI6WpMAZTsWD8v05rWieLeOjwPvgA3Ut15F06xGPebPgQBfUpVvtljiuVXkXZzK0ybQVKJQs/s1600/AMERICA.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="326" data-original-width="245" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiRvTFVT1zggYZt8BEA-kEvvvaDxvvvqFV8MY9y-eX8lGb-YMoE1SqyBk3jIh8nFjWOoBcI6WpMAZTsWD8v05rWieLeOjwPvgA3Ut15F06xGPebPgQBfUpVvtljiuVXkXZzK0ybQVKJQs/s320/AMERICA.png" width="240" /></a></div>
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like everyone else back in 2013/2014, I read <i>The Selection</i> series by Kiera Cass. The series is set in a dystopian America where citizens are organized into a cast system based on job and income. The country is ruled by a monarchy that selects new partners through a <i>Bachelor</i>-esque televised dating show. Seriously. Everyone in the book internet sphere seemed to read and enjoy the trilogy. However, most commented on how irritating the main character, America Singer, was. I wholeheartedly agree. America might be the singularly most irritating character I have ever had the misfortune of reading about. She is whiny, entitled, and naive. You are supposed to root for the main character in most novels yet I struggled to care about America. She created most of the petty problems herself and either reacted poorly or failed to act at all. This made reading the romance, which is central to the plot, difficult when one half of the partnership is unbearable. </span><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: x-large;"><b>aelin galathynius</b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdtW7Euss564b59rsAnJMFf78HpXRGRRah08GknZ8CN6o8djlV5P-t4_lhx-2xBUGhDMALVpgMFYxazl1gucPW3ECQ5pM2Pkg9DcWwJmh_7s58xGPQ9UAgKrqTHR7yfxFFiZrXqpTCSM/s906/aelin.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="906" data-original-width="700" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdtW7Euss564b59rsAnJMFf78HpXRGRRah08GknZ8CN6o8djlV5P-t4_lhx-2xBUGhDMALVpgMFYxazl1gucPW3ECQ5pM2Pkg9DcWwJmh_7s58xGPQ9UAgKrqTHR7yfxFFiZrXqpTCSM/w253-h328/aelin.jpg" width="253" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">This choice may be a controversial one. Some readers are die hard fans of not only the <i>Throne of Glass</i> series but of its infamous protagonist, Celaena/Aelin. Personally, I tend to dislike her. Not only is she the world's worst assassin, she is arrogant and entitled. I did not mind her as a character in the beginning of the series but my dislike for her grew over time. At first, I enjoyed her confidence and open enjoyment of traditionally feminine things while still being a warrior. However, her "humor" and smug attitude eventually got on my nerves. Sarah J. Maas frequently tells the audience how talented and powerful Celaena/Aelin is but rarely shows it, especially in the earlier books. I see the appeal of her yet cannot partake in the enjoyment myself.</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: x-large;">dolores umbridge</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVj2noqX7BdNEZYsu1yYFYq7AQ2njChB7gQBBQXmX-PUjTZqdHX_u7kLKNHcrmh0_3MM9uVq8svE4fdP4OAJi-h-q2XLSnu6gxxKnAsexyLDQUwvL3ioihnhRXqtGaV0hC3GmgYrsQ07A/s2048/umb.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1468" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVj2noqX7BdNEZYsu1yYFYq7AQ2njChB7gQBBQXmX-PUjTZqdHX_u7kLKNHcrmh0_3MM9uVq8svE4fdP4OAJi-h-q2XLSnu6gxxKnAsexyLDQUwvL3ioihnhRXqtGaV0hC3GmgYrsQ07A/w235-h328/umb.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">I think this one goes without saying. Every childhood <i>Harry Potter</i> fan despised Dolores Umbridge with each atom in their being. She is manipulative, callous, and downright evil. Umbridge abused children and took advantage of her position in the corrupt ministry to further her own selfish desires. Most readers hated her even more than they hated Voldemort. She actively opposed a more inclusive and progressive (or actually functioning haha) government. Ultimately, she sided with Voldemort and his minions out of her own personal hatred and ambition. While Voldemort was cutthroat and clear in his desires, Umbridge used the guise of a ministry official as a front to hide her nefarious goals. Essentially, Umbridge sucks and nothing will ever change my mind. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-size: x-large;">literally everyone in twilight</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtOR-Bmut5AS5_4CKksl49546OeShyg_gh1bBAx-gBBFMu1d_8DpuqrSZJo5e7sgdTMz3gko39-4POMLBpdhZxFLUFMAIFwk0u8x78EEl0aWIXhpB1QZbeerRiS5vFh398DnoouCH3n4/s980/twi.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="653" data-original-width="980" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGtOR-Bmut5AS5_4CKksl49546OeShyg_gh1bBAx-gBBFMu1d_8DpuqrSZJo5e7sgdTMz3gko39-4POMLBpdhZxFLUFMAIFwk0u8x78EEl0aWIXhpB1QZbeerRiS5vFh398DnoouCH3n4/w328-h218/twi.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Even as an eleven year old I harbored an intense dislike for most of the characters in <i>Twilight</i>. The only redeemable characters are Charlie and Alice. Perhaps I could throw Carlisle in there, too. Let's see...Bella is a boring Mary Sue who places romantic love above everything else, Edward is a stalker and a hundred-year old virgin, and Jacob pursues a girl who actively turns him down multiple times. Plus he fell in love with a newborn baby. Yeah. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">rachel watson</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: courier;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-family: courier; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jY7Vjnl1uOXvTKHwL0nGa6oXhMuVw8AcZjeV0mY-Vx9Zy_hUcfewp_FTZ-L_jDoJmLhXZx_NxTyS1eoa1EHr3pf5Kc8knsNlgNUT3bqaaTDx_IICDuRbZX90CwgR3QlijSBo3pF09hI/s300/rw.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4jY7Vjnl1uOXvTKHwL0nGa6oXhMuVw8AcZjeV0mY-Vx9Zy_hUcfewp_FTZ-L_jDoJmLhXZx_NxTyS1eoa1EHr3pf5Kc8knsNlgNUT3bqaaTDx_IICDuRbZX90CwgR3QlijSBo3pF09hI/w240-h240/rw.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;">Rachel Watson is the alcoholic divorcee from <i>The Girl on the Train</i>. Perhaps I am biased because it is one of my least favorite novels ever. However, a big contributing factor to me disliking that novel was the horrible cast of characters. I hated every single character in the series, especially the protagonist. Listen, I understand that not all characters are meant to be liked. But reading a murder mystery and finding yourself incapable of caring whether the main character lives or dies is just...sad, and clearly indicates major issues with characterization. Rachel is an unreliable narrator but her personality is so weak that instead of inspiring intrigue, she simply inspires boredom. As Rachel attempts to solve a murder while also trying to piece herself back together, I found myself wishing the story revolved around someone else. </span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUErKCxi6efbw_yCuUm8aEIXUj9sZ8vJZhrr0Hyr60wU5J5vD1bdZVqTzEF4qCCjyHsWgCK5F3OlgZa4y-RtnDlUf5QCZTSbd2az4ImaSqUJfjTqzpF8E8WW2ha2eKSmqWWhV8kpyahU/s2480/Bottom+Banner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="2480" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHUErKCxi6efbw_yCuUm8aEIXUj9sZ8vJZhrr0Hyr60wU5J5vD1bdZVqTzEF4qCCjyHsWgCK5F3OlgZa4y-RtnDlUf5QCZTSbd2az4ImaSqUJfjTqzpF8E8WW2ha2eKSmqWWhV8kpyahU/w640-h134/Bottom+Banner.png" width="640" /></a></div><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span><span style="color: #9fc5e8; font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b>Who are your least favorite characters?</b></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span><span><span style="font-family: courier; font-size: xx-large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQ8Zn5g4pHPZn3eFL_QGANb9oWcagz1L9CKH2m2aOUAmb2eh4GniwvE-7vJX5zErq9_aHPOqFLXlGhWNGLNpUEtWCmT5Rb0ulHH0f-5tNSq274Nurc-V9Bs_nFrZD8xf4nunCF7Zq-ww/s238/Signature.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="52" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifQ8Zn5g4pHPZn3eFL_QGANb9oWcagz1L9CKH2m2aOUAmb2eh4GniwvE-7vJX5zErq9_aHPOqFLXlGhWNGLNpUEtWCmT5Rb0ulHH0f-5tNSq274Nurc-V9Bs_nFrZD8xf4nunCF7Zq-ww/w152-h52/Signature.jpg" width="152" /></a></div><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div><div><br /></div>Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-37127638426119432482020-08-07T12:00:00.001-04:002020-08-08T12:50:48.039-04:00Is Chain of Gold Worth Reading?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Cassandra Clare has dominated the YA sphere for years with her shadowhunter novels. I, like many others, adored her </span><i style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Mortal Instruments</i><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> as a teen. As she expanded the world into more and more additional series, doubt grew over me. Were there really more stories to tell or was this a cash-grab? With </span><i style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The Dark Artifices</i><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">, I was sure she had more to say. The characters were new, the plot was intense, and her writing was better than ever. But do I still feel the same way after reading the newest installment and series, </span><i style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Chain of Gold</i><span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">? (P.S: this review is spoiler free for CoG but not for the other series).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span face="" style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace;"><b>what is it about?</b></span></span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Chain of Gold </i>follows the generation of shadowhunters after Tessa and Will from <i>The Infernal Devices</i>. This includes their children and is still set in London during the Edwardian period. I love a good historically set novel and the era definitely impacts the story. The time period is not just a footnote. The main characters include: Tessa and Will's children (James and Lucie), the Carstairs (Cordelia and Alistair), Charlotte and Henry's children (Matthew and Charles), and the various Lightwood children, including the adopted daughter of Tatiana Blackthorn, Grace. </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">James and Cordelia are the two front protagonists and love interests. London has been mysteriously demon-free for years until the arrival of strange and powerful monsters that can appear in the daylight. Soon, shadowhunters begin falling prone to the dangerous poison these demons spread. This event coincides with the arrival of Cordelia Carstairs and Grace Blackthorn in London as they aim to enter shadowhunter society. It soon becomes apparent that James and Lucie's ties to the shadow world through their demon grandfather have become pertinent, especially regarding their own strange powers. </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Good:</b></span><br />
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">As always, the world Cassandra Clare has created and built upon is explored masterfully. I have enjoyed the shadow world from day one and continue to love reading about it. Newer additions to the familiar London scene include downworlder pubs and secret clubs, which are both mysterious and fun. Furthermore, her writing has continued to improve with every release. <i>Chain of Gold </i>features an elegant and romantic tone of writing that fits the time period without being too "historical." The drama and tension spun will have your eyes glued to the page. Who will end up with who? How are these demons appearing in the sunlight? How many will die before a cure is found for their venom? </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cassandra Clare has always been a master at crafting characters and webs of relationships. As usual, I like pretty much every single one. The main protagonists, James and Cordelia, are a little expected but still intriguing. I particularly enjoyed Cordelia's strength of will and morals. But other than them, Matthew, Alistair, and Anna held my attention due to the complexity of their motivations and personalities. Many readers will likely relate to Lucie, an enthusiastic writer and reader. </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>The Bad:</b></span><br />
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">No book can be perfect. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this installment, as I have with all of its predecessors. However, it is not my favorite. My chief complaint is the rather large cast of characters. There were too many perspectives and too many "main" characters. I wish Cassandra Clare had limited the focus to a few rather than the many. This would have focused in the plot as well as reduce the amount of drag. Not every character can be in the spotlight. I often struggled to keep track of them all and who they were related to. </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like I mentioned, the plot dragged in some places. I felt like the story fell victim to being overshadowed by the romantic relationships and related drama. Moreover, the relationships, while entertaining, seem to be repeating some of Cassandra Clare's previously used plots. I know she writes an intense forbidden love story, but it is becoming a bit stale and repetitive. There always has to be a reason the lovers cannot be together, often involving a curse of some kind or miscommunication. I want her to expand her plotting skills, not reuse old tropes. </span><br />
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<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Overall:</b></span><br />
<span face="" style="font-family: "helvetica neue", arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">The story is fun and engaging with some interesting twists and turns, as well as sweet cameos from old favorites. I enjoyed the Jesse/Lucie interactions and wished more of the plot explored his ghostly existence. Perhaps in the coming books. Also, I love the diversity in this novel. Cassandra Clare manages to include diverse characters without feeling preachy or as if they are "token" characters. But, in the end, I liked it, just not as much as some of her previous novels.</span><br />
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<span face="" style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new", courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Have you read <i>Chain of Gold</i>? If so, what did you think?</b></span></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-44020202207576612032020-07-24T12:00:00.000-04:002020-07-24T12:48:37.859-04:00My Favorite Female Authors<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For years, women were (and often still are) disrespected as authors. Many would utilize a pseudonym or their initials rather than their full name to make their gender less obvious to the reader. But women make up so many of my favorite authors and are invaluable to literature. This post is meant to celebrate female writers by showing off my favorites. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Katherine Arden wrote the wonderful and evocative Winternight trilogy, the first of which is <i>The Bear and the Nightingale</i>. This trilogy quickly became one of my all time favorite series and I recommend it to nearly everyone. The books follow a young heroine, Vasya, in the old days of Russia as she struggles to come to grips with her magical abilities and ties to pagan culture in a world determined to destroy both. Culture and religion clash amidst a tale filled with magic and awakening evil forces. The story and the writing are descriptive and enchanting, while Vasya proves to be a capable protagonist. There is nothing I dislike about this series and I cannot wait to see what Katherine Arden writes next. It is going to be difficult to beat, that is for sure. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>leigh bardugo</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I think everyone involved in the online book world knows of Leigh Bardugo. First popularized by her YA fantasy trilogy, <i>Shadow and Bone</i>, she expanded the world with a follow up series called <i>Six of Crows</i> and later <i>King of Scars</i>. In 2019, she ventured into adult fantasy with <i>Ninth House</i>, a darker story wracked with horror and ghouls. I have read every single release and it has been such a joy to watch Leigh Bardugo grow as an author and her writing abilities refine. The <i>Six of Crows</i> duology is certainly my favorite but <i>Ninth House</i> also managed to become one of my favorite 2019 reads. If you don't know where to start with her novels, I would always recommend SoC, which shines as her strongest series. The plot follows a group of criminals hired to pull of the biggest heist ever in the dangerous, magical Grisha world. </span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>gillian flynn</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Gillian Flynn is the author behind <i>Gone Girl</i>, <i>Sharp Objects</i>, and <i>Dark Places</i>. In my opinion, she is the queen of modern day mystery and thrillers. She used to work as a journalist, so there is a crisp, gritty feeling to her writing style, which perfectly suits the genre she explores. Each novel by her is a stand alone mystery featuring a murder or two. Her characters are always very human and are realistically flawed. I would not recommend her books to anyone with a faint heart or a weak stomach, as they delve into the darkest parts of the human psyche and involve the worst (and sometimes the most tragic) of crimes. My personal favorite is <i>Sharp Objects</i> and I thoroughly enjoyed the Hulu mini series based on the book, as well. </span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">madeline miller</span> </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Madeline Miller entered my life last year when I read her second novel, <i>Circe</i>. That book became one of my favorite books and this year her other release, <i>The Song of Achilles</i>, may have even beat it. Both are inspired by Greek mythology. Madeline Miller sticks closely to the original myths and history while providing new perspectives and expanding upon already existing tales in much more intriguing and emotional ways. Both books stirred deep emotion in me, and <i>The Song of Achilles </i>nearly had me sobbing whilst on a plane ride. I cannot recommend them enough. If you enjoy mythology, or just a beautiful story, pick both of her novels up. You will not regret it. I am hoping she released another book in the coming years because I can't get enough. </span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Remember how I said Gillian Flynn was the modern queen of mystery? Well, Agatha Christie is the classic and always reigning matriarch of the genre. No one writes a better mystery than Agatha Christie. No matter how you try, you will fail to guess the big twist of who committed the crime (if there truly was one). I personally recommend <i>And Then There Were None</i> and <i>Endless Night</i>, but I have yet to be disappointed by any of her books. She had a long and very successful career, so there are many to choose from. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Another highly prolific author is V.E. Schwab, also known as Victoria Schwab. While she mostly writes fantasy, she occasionally publishes a supernatural or science fiction themed novel. Once again, there are many books and series to choose from in her retinue. My personal favorites are <i>Vicious </i>and <i>A Darker Shade of Magic</i>. The former is a science fiction revenge tale while the second is a fantasy trilogy involving magic and inter-dimensional travel. I will also always hold a special love for <i>The Archived</i>, which partially inspired the name of this blog. I believe that V.E. Schwab's future involves even more success and more fantastic books. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Erin Morgenstern is the author of <i>The Night Circus</i> and <i>The Starless Sea</i>. She essentially tortured the book world by making us wait years before her second release. Both novels are unique and filled with ambiance and enchantments. Erin Morgenstern writes lyrical, purple prose and is not afraid to venture into the stranger side of fiction. <i>The Night Circus</i> is a complex, multifaceted story centering around a magical circus that is only open at night. <i>The Starless Sea</i> is a love letter to the art of story and revolves around an underground, secret library. Both are immersive experiences and hold titles as some of my favorite books. If you want to read a beautiful, otherworldly novel, pick up on of her books.</span><br />
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<br />Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-56736971441285411002020-06-26T12:00:00.000-04:002020-06-27T13:59:27.544-04:00My Favorite LGBTQ+ Characters<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In celebration of this year's Pride Month, I have decided to share a list of some of my favorite queer characters from books that I love. Whilst compiling this list, I came across an unfortunate conclusion: there are simply not enough LGBTQ+ characters! And especially not enough lesbian, transgender, or bisexual ones. If you have any recommendations for books featuring more LGBTQ+ characters, let me know!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I'm sorry, but if you try to tell me that Achilles and Patroclus were not, in fact, lovers...well, I would be obligated to educate you. Clearly, the two were deeply in love. I mean, Achilles requested that their ashes be mixed together after death. I am so happy that Madeline Miller openly portrayed the couple in her mythology inspired novel, <i>The Song of Achilles</i>. I adore Achilles, as well, but Patroclus is the sweetest little cinnamon roll and must be protected at all costs. </span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ah, yes, Magnus Bane. How could I not include the Shadowhunters resident and iconic bisexual warlock? He loves eyeliner, glitter, and Alec Lightwood. Oh, and his cat! Any character that is a fellow cat lover is a favorite of mine. Plus, Magnus is a powerful, kind warlock. If I could have any of the Shadowhunters' characters' powers, it would certainly be Magnus' abilities. Oh, and I would take his cat, too.</span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In May, I read Erin Morgenstern's long-awaited new release, The Starless Sea. It is not a book for everyone, but I adored it. If you enjoy lyrical prose, strange and complex magic or magical worlds, and rich storytelling, pick this one up. The main protagonist, Zachary Ezra Rollins, is an introverted gay graduate student. Oh, he is also a raging nerd (like myself). He is soft yet brave and I truly enjoyed his character. Although the relationship between him and Dorian was a little rushed and out of the blue, I still found it to be endearing and heartwarming. </span></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here we have another Shadowhunter character. Mark Blackthorn cameos in the final installment in The Mortal Instruments and goes on to become a main character in <i>The Dark Artifices</i>. He is a half-fae Shadowhunter and is also a bisexual icon. I really enjoyed and rooted for his relationship with Kiernan and Cristina. I like Kiernan as well, but I preferred Mark. Honestly, all of the Blackthorn children are fantastic. I suppose I could also add Ty or Kit to this list. Basically, any LGBT character that Cassandra Clare has ever written could be included on here because I love them all.</span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><br /><br /></b></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc;">gideon the ninth</span></b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I read <i>Gideon the Ninth </i>way back at the beginning of the year and absolutely freaking loved it. I knew the second I finished it that it would be one of my favorite books of the year (and of all time). I am counting down the seconds until the sequel, <i>Harrow the Ninth</i>, comes out in the summer. Listen, you have to read this. It is spectacular and mysterious science fiction. There are sword fights, necromancy, and a enemies-to-lovers romance between Gideon and Harrow. It is an amazing story all around. I am getting excited just typing this. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I just have such a soft spot for Hades' moody, emo child. Nico was confirmed to be gay in the follow up series to Percy Jackson, <i>The Heroes of Olympus</i>. I loved seeing his character grow from an uncertain, angry tween into a strong, independent man. I recently reread <i>The Titan's Curse</i> during my Percy Jackson reread, and little baby Nico is so cute. What a nerd. </span></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>The Raven Cycle </i>was one of my favorite series ever back in 2014/2015. I should honestly give it a reread. But while I was invested in Blue and Gansey's forbidden romance, I was much more interested in the relationship between Ronan and Adam. Unpopular opinion, but Adam is not my favorite character. However, I adored Ronan. His story, past, and magical ability really draws you in. I am such a sucker for a brooding teen with a tragic past. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my favorite fantasy series is V.E. Schwab's <i>A Darker Shade of Magic </i>trilogy. While Kell and Lila steal the show, I felt quite fond of Rhy and his relationship with Alucard. Rhy can have a temper, but he is such a ray of positivist and joy. His brotherly relationship with Kell is so sweet, but his romance with the dashing Alucard is to die for. Watching them protect and fall for each other all over again in the books was one of my favorite aspects. </span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Honestly, there are not nearly enough lesbian characters in fiction. I struggled to find as many female LGBTQ+ members as male ones. But Ead Duryan came to mind. Ead is the main protagonist in The Priory of the Orange Tree, which is a stand alone fantasy novel. She is a powerful, determined sorceress with a heart of gold. While the book had its faults, as all novels do, I particularly enjoyed the romance between Ead and Queen Sabran. Watching them fall for each other in the midst of war and terror was awesome. I rooted for them the entire time.</span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Until <i>King of Scars</i>, most believes Nina Zenik from <i>Six of Crows</i> to be heterosexual. However, in Leigh Bardugo's recent release, she revealed that Nina is actually bisexual! Listen, I love every single character from SoC. I even named my car "Nina." She has spunk and fire. She is a badass warrior with a love of sweets and fancy dresses. I cannot wait to see what romances await her in the future, especially following Matthias. </span><br />
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<br />Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-59392965460136662552020-06-12T12:00:00.000-04:002020-06-12T18:19:49.469-04:00Movies I Have Been Watching + My Thoughts <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let's cut to the chase: I have been using my sudden free time to mindlessly absorb a ton of media. I compiled a list of *some* of the films I have watched since quarantine began to give you my thoughts on them. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Hereditary </i>is a fan-favorite horror movie directed by Ari Aster. It follows a family after the maternal grandmother passes and the strange occurrences that follow. I know it may sound like your generic haunting movie, but it is anything but that. <i>Hereditary </i>has claimed the position of the best horror movie I have watched in isolation. Wow, just wow. Not only is it visually stunning from a filmography standpoint, the storyline and acting is so intense and emotional that you will experience visceral reactions. I only wish the Oscars was not so prejudiced against horror films, because this one was so deserving. It is horrifying, yes, and disturbing. It will make your skin crawl and your heart pound. It will also make you scream and cry. Warning for gore and nudity.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had been wanting to watch this Disney Pixar film since the trailers were first released. Yes, I am twenty years old and yes, I am a sucker for Disney movies. <i>Onward </i>is set in a magical yet modern day world where magic has taken a backseat to technology. Two elven brothers find a way to potentially bring their deceased father back to life--but only for one day. It is so incredibly fun, hilarious, and touching. If you have grown up with a single parent or know someone who has, <i>Onward </i>will surely cause you to shed a tear or two. Plus, who doesn't enjoy a delightful and daring magical quest? Like all Disney films, it can be goofy and lighthearted but contains moments that will be particularly emotional. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Can you believe I had never seen this iconic movie before? <i>National Treasure</i> is an action/adventure film following a historian as he searches for the Templar Treasure. The acting is fantastic, as well as the humor, and I just <i>adore </i>a puzzle solving kind of story. If there are riddles, secret passageways, and ridiculous plots to uncover hidden locations/treasures, count me in. I suppose you can tell that I was a kid you was obsessed with the Nickelodeon show <i>House of Anubis </i>back in the day. Does anyone remember that? Anyways, this movie is a clever and entertaining watch. My only true complaint is that the romance seemed a little forced and unnecessary. I did not sense any sort of connection between the two characters. Oh, well. Mid-2000s films always needed a romance for some reason. And now I finally understand the memes about stealing the Declaration of Independence. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I stumbled across this one on Netflix and ended being surprisingly pleases. <i>What Lies Beneath </i>is a horror/psychological thriller starring Michelle Pfeiffer and Harrison Ford, who play a married couple. After her daughter moves off to college, the wife begins to suspect that her house is haunted. But is she truly being trailed by a specter or is she losing her mind? This movie was far better than I expected. I admit that I am biased and love Harrison Ford, but the tension that built up through this movie was superbly executed. You question whether the ghosts are real or if the wife is actually insane. But soon other secrets come to light. Honestly, I recommend this to people who don't typically enjoy horror, as well as those who do. It leans more towards being a thriller than a true scary movie--but in the best possible way of blending the genres. However, the plot is slow and stretches out for over two hours. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Now, here is a film for true horror lovers. I don't know if I would suggest it for those who enjoy very traditional horror (jump scares and haunted houses), but die hard fans are bound to appreciate it. And that is the thing: <i>Midsommar</i> is not a movie to be enjoyed, precisely, but is one to appreciate. Decide for yourself whether that is a positive or a negative. I would class it as what I like to call "disturbing" horror. That is, the kind that, well, disturbs you and makes you feel uncomfortable, like you are intruding on and witnessing something you shouldn't be. It doesn't precisely scare you, but leaves you feeling off. It leaves you asking, "What in the world did I just watch?" <i>Midsommar</i> is a tale of grief, loss, and cults in the bright hills of Sweden. American students travel there to take part in their Midsummer festival but soon find themselves trapped in a pagan cult. If you are sensitive to suicide, gore, or have recently lost a family member, do not watch this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This movie is a unique blend of comedy and action. I didn't expect anything from it other than to be entertained. And entertained I was. I don't know what it is, but this movie is <i>hilarious</i>. There are some moments where I was just dying laughing. It follows two best friends who become wrapped up in an international spy war when one of them discovers her ex-boyfriend is a spy. They travel through foreign countries and have to try and evade trained agents with no experience or clue what to do. Like I said, kind of hilarious. However, the plot is all over the place. Multiple times I thought the story was over and it wasn't. I didn't particularly mind that, but it made for an odd pace. But the acting!!! So good, especially on Kate McKinnon's side. Overall, it's silly and makes for a good time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are an OG reader of this blog, you will know that for the first year or two my profile picture was of Elsa from <i>Frozen</i>. Not only am I a Disney fan, my favorite Disney movie is <i>Frozen</i>. I know it is overrated, but that does not stop my heart from loving it. The animation, the music, the story... I adore it all. Also, Elsa's character and her arc always touched my teenage heart in a way I couldn't explain. Anyways, due to final exams in the fall, I was unable to make it into theaters to see the sequel. I didn't know what to expect from this since Disney sequels have notoriously flopped. But I was rather impressed and pleased with this one! I think the music is <i>almost</i> as good as the original's and they explored new story lines that connected to its predecessor but added to the story rather than diminishing it. Granted, it is not as satisfying as the first film but I think it is a respectable follow up. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">When I was a wee child, I was obsessed with <i>The Haunted Mansion</i>--both the movie and the Disney ride. I recently rewatched it for the first time in years and fell in love all over again. In my opinion, this is a criminally underrated film. The story follows a family where the parents are realtors. One day, they get a call to help list and sell an old mansion set by a graveyard. However, the family soon discovers that the manor is haunted by a number of ghosts with nefarious intentions. The dad, played by Eddie Murphy (what a man, I love him), must save his wife from being turned into a ghost herself. It's gothic and spooky while also being romantic and funny. The characters are a little over-exaggerated, but in a way that enhances their roles (in my very biased opinion). </span><br />
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<br />Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-36824009324441241792020-05-29T12:00:00.000-04:002020-05-29T12:31:14.551-04:00Summer Reading List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/05/summer-reading-list.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0FQ3GH_vzBqfeVfR74SfDaSmsYuIi0fS5o1CB1NAOoileJG7Fjc27Tvmo8lJj2wDqqm0OwUYxOg9q7otCZ6Lm68hJXxRKTnQMuEwvFFCF0_w9ErAaZ8kA3oRmIQbbH7q0yjpXeA43bOI/s640/IMG_7190+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Unpopular opinion: summer is my least favorite season. I despise heat and my English rose skin does not deal well with harsh sunlight. Also, bugs love to bite me and shorts are always</span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> too</i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> short. The only reason I look forward to summer each year is summer </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">break</i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. However, I will be taking two summer courses this time around (which are now online). Will I have as much free time to read? Probably not. But I still have a few key novels I want to pick up this season. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><i>harrow the ninth </i>by tamsyn muir</b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39325105-harrow-the-ninth?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=zZWf0dVQfG&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="455" data-original-width="304" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwFia1zl9c0YNY1MBuwtvs4zr7ZsqprqTtqdJTVUwqe2-iDCOlsRPBIVtp6k5z296sCtcwiIjw_w8SuR3F3rZfeXVzoFIORapIJl5z4M-nCoFA1bq6i-RWrR-K3Pt_nIE3xhT-FWIhELY/s320/HARROW.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I read <i>Gideon the Ninth</i> back in January, I fell in love hard. I immediately marked down the release date of the sequel, <i>Harrow the Ninth</i>, in my planner. Thanks to the current pandemic, the sequel release date has been pushed back to August fourth, but you bet I will be at the bookstore that very day. Let me tell you, this series is amazing. It is cutthroat, mysterious, and witty. I am not sure I have ever read a debut novel so spectacular. Am I properly conveying my anticipation to you? I AM SO EXCITED. How about now? I would sell my firstborn child to get my hands on this book right now. </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17699853-chain-of-gold?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=vAYSOCR1Jy&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1061" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv4QkBWc7NQ-_OlPF3CVAg6q4NUN1e8pGwLZ4NSdMqT2J5r1ZkXbwi2akIvXaGO-kUVCkU6UVa1Eh8-k9XDb4THmBNdzi_AZ6LloOnzpg3d2Sgs5YF_i8EMB3xkyhfKFtCJgqhq_tdUNc/s320/CHAIN.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I admit it...I am a shadowhunters fan. Back in the heyday of <i>The Mortal Instruments</i>, I adored the series as well as TID. When Cassandra Clare announced she would be writing more series within the same world, I assumed it would be some kind of cash grab. Turns out, I was wrong. TDA was fantastic and Clare's writing has improved beautifully since her initial releases. I cannot wait for the libraries to reopen so I can get my hands on the newest release, <i>Chain of Gold</i>. This new book follows the next generation of Shadowhunters following TID. Namely, Will and Tessa's children! How exciting. Plus that means it is set in the early 1900's, meaning it is also historical fiction. A winner all around. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/43936287-starsight" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="316" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdsLCaJsxYkqADV_dw2YA0r4pmwilWXDK6w50yyl3JGBI6R57NKU77CqUe_SsLT7L73rVo0ZMsFZZsx3YZ7FAw5NqGbYX54UKzJh21OpjaaSAKCSjGM1N3Cd18fIDP4NxXToHA44PIbCA/s320/STARSIGHT.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Back in March I read Brandon Sanderson's (aka the modern king of fantasy) first YA science fiction release, <i>Skyward</i>. You can read all about my thoughts in <a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/05/skyward-is-epic-science-fiction.html" target="_blank">my review</a> but basically, I adored every word of it. I have been dying to read the sequel ever since. This is one I intend to buy (once bookstores reopen again) and devour. I have all the confidence that it will be just as action packed, hilarious, and intense as its predecessor. If you enjoy science fiction, aliens, and spaceships, this book was made for you. Read it! And I will be off reading the sequel. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26856502-vengeful?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=L3RtS3kmQV&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="307" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3MNlk9PWQgx_gLiJtlPw6txoTZGKmv_ud2mgge-GHsarpwb8S1Ly54icEvA_j-rS8Mc7VtkNbuPfvBsZ6ObsqYr599CjkiQkNg2XJU6oR7Azf6iVwrsqJRmm_7uhFWLpzSlvYkURf8I/s320/VENGEFUL.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Oh, look, another sequel! And another beloved author. V.E. Schwab has been one of my favorites since 2013. I have loved all of her publications ever since. But <i>Vicious</i> is definitely my favorite to date. In case you didn't know, that novel follows a pair of old friends turned enemies that happen to possess extraordinary powers. A decade later, Victor escapes prison to pursue his vengeance against Eli. It is an epic, morally gray novel that I have since reread. But although I own the sequel, <i>Vengeful</i>, I have left it collecting dust on my bookshelves rather than reading it. I should change that, right? Soon, I swear. That is why I am putting it on this list after all. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6547259-the-hero-of-ages" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="261" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_nWLPonY9WyeizRZzGjJk0C_FbqoSM1ZcAIV8IBGDZEzkpCvD8XuJAyYXb3H3HtCBg6MRWEIlS08q2jn4yHl1hOHcsGcX4UPXS8_q4RFAMcp1gYKRQBus33gFNjQ0tnkXkNHN0W6xKSU/s320/HERO+OF+AGES.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Yes, I do indeed have two Brandon Sanderson books on my summer TBR. For a few years I have been claiming the Mistborn trilogy as one of my favorite fantasy series. I have also been telling everyone how spectacular it is and how they should read it, too. But...here's a little secret. I have not yet read the final book in the trilogy, <i>The Hero of Ages</i>. Shocking, I know. Blasphemy. I swear to try and rectify this shameful situation in the coming months. The first book, The Final Empire, follows a complex world in which the evil villain had won. He has ruled for centuries but soon a team comes together to defeat him. This team includes a variety of magical people that possess unique abilities once they have digested specific metals. I love the world-building and the plot. I am sure the ending will be explosive. </span></span></span><br />
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-63500885635353295292020-05-22T12:00:00.000-04:002020-05-22T12:52:24.008-04:00Classics I Haven't Read But Really Need To<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/05/classics-i-havent-read-but-really-need.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAVepI3MhhCnI91W80OlHUx-tFWiSMLCNEx-EoRUeycD8hQa-TKsyZfAGg3GahxzFzoxQbC59ns3OJ5cWwhSrD8v5HJ-7Hu9kUYIpCsMSbRS-1fcOLuRtK0lEaKxCZ35i0uompKl4xrSQ/s640/IMG_6487+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I am not usually a classic literature reader. Fantasy will always hold reign as my favorite genre. The classics I </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">have </i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">read were either forced upon me in school or were simply different kinds of classics (i.e. the science fiction ones). </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Brave New World </i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">and </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Picture of Dorian Gray </i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">are amazing. But as a self-professed reader and book lover, many people are shocked that I haven't read anything by Jane Austen or the Bronte sisters. Honestly, they haven't interested me much due to their general plots. Recently I have admitted to myself that I really ought to just <i>do it</i> and read the books. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><i>pride and prejudice</i> by jane austen</b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1885.Pride_and_Prejudice?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=jHWNkZCVyp&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="291" height="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxuORfMQF-p0RQ0D3l32lYTyPhxxTzZ6QcdYmYtZLgVh43Seuou2EBjKEM-xt-potz4hgPog770YaH4andSAmGqcqjMCRpJWYqLSYcKQRmj6xgi86v8aNFnorNmKAcR5BAUk7a8tSO5gA/s320/AUSTEN.jpg" target="_blank" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ah, the age old Austen classic that inspired a series of movies over the past century or so. I have never been inclined to pick this one up despite its fame. The reason? I don't particularly enjoy romance. So why would I read a book centered around a relationship? But I am so very tempted to finally read it just to become acquainted with the beloved character of Elizabeth Bennet. Plus maybe English majors will stop hounding me to read this. Oh, and have you seen the gorgeous, lovely, decadent covers this classic has been printed in? I have nearly broken down and bought it based off of the pretty covers alone. Yes, this is me coming out as a book-cover-judger. Sue me. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24280.Les_Mis_rables" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="287" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm7B6wp8he5psb7tk8oQbOMpxuxVJDEOmHrgxIBG069MrfMAnG9tuFfNPIwZvWyq__CF1hPETIuy_9qBEPWY69tfH9SQO6Smrp3X780xrF69pAFfbOsvA_ca1IqiKvgdxqbjk5_f6cIgM/s320/LES.jpg" width="193" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Les Mis</i> (fondly referred to as "the brick" by fans) has been high on my to-read list forever. One of my childhood friends adores (cough cough is obsessed with) this novel and has been bugging me to read it since 2014. Yet I have never gotten around to it in all that time. Six years of time! So the question is, why? If the story sounds so appealing (I LOVE the film) and I have people telling me how amazing it is, why have I not read it? Well...I'm a coward. The sheer size of it daunts me. This thing is nearly 1500 pages of translated French. Yes, 1500. When would I ever have the time? Certainly not during the school semesters. Ah well, one day. For now I will be content by rewatching the movie. Again. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10210.Jane_Eyre?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=CdgfTF5tL7&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="302" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHMIIh1lFjkbS5Wk-U0Q7Fo_HpmwdeBJ9IMsMIOgLCtLPeaI-EVJzd9kCm0vgevLzoyIQvOG0z9F0aSfw1Sl39eVXwviMyoqkrsoRLr3v_wZf8eYg7L3MOBkrBjPHK1bAozHfU45MEXiM/s320/JANE.jpg" width="203" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Can I be honest here? I often mix up <i>Jane Eyre</i> and <i>Pride and Prejudice</i>. I mean aren't they both English Regency style romances? With a lot of drama and society ruling? I suppose I will learn the difference when I read them. Surely they are distinctly different and read quite differently. So far, I can surmise that Jane is orphan who moves to an estate while Elizabeth Bennet is a society darling who needs to get married to save her family financially. Okay, so far, Jane's story sounds far more interesting. Someone tell me which is better and which I should read first. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7190.The_Three_Musketeers?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=OTEw3RtlN1&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="291" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnFuTLmqKQPtUDjcy9DTqq2SimL3HVojLhmO0aKsRAVf4ir_OHbq6JsnZs0Vl8THwf_eW6K6fGcMhRnr7PVaXdMmDjl1uw4QZwLOYILBn_nH2R1liOkYuH97C0gdKS4LrxkNJjZA8wxs/s320/THREE.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have no excuse or reason as to why I have failed to read <i>The Three Musketeers</i>. In case you are unaware (how?), this novel is an honor-filled, chivalrous legend filled with love, scandal, and daring. I greatly appreciate a great action-packed heist of a book. In fact, <i>The Count of Monte Cristo</i> by the same author has remained one of my favorite classics since I first read it at thirteen years old. Someone please come to my house and force me to finally read this. I have no excuse. I want to read it. What is wrong with me? (Oh, that's right...I spend too much time watching YouTube/Netflix and wasting my life away haha). </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b><i>rebecca </i>by daphne du maurier</b></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17899948-rebecca" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="267" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnaxx_bO4vrem_OeKJZkV6le6LbkDLUqAksZzx-ZLkDUY1V0B-uEKrRil2FSXlWkjqi-oO5-j3OgRoA6TabDhTDoQZvM_a6EYQA4RSeB4FkTEG1n9aG2LKXuST-K0-XdjNUi2G2KOO0iI/s320/REBECCA.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Rebecca </i>is another classic novel I have every desire to read yet lack motivation for no apparent or particular reason. In case you did not know, I am an avid horror fan. I watch scary movies constantly. Daphne du Maurier's classic book follows a newly married woman who finds herself being haunted by her husband's past marriage, and possibly by his dead wife. I love a good ghost story. Honestly, I want to pick this one up right now. I am talking myself into reading this one as I write. Who else thinks that this would make a marvelous inspiration for the unconfirmed third season of <i>The Haunting of Hill House</i>? Both seasons so far (one of which is set to be released in the fall) are based on classic horror novels set in haunted estates, so doesn't this seem perfect? </span></span></span>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-27504924635442947692020-05-15T12:00:00.000-04:002020-05-15T18:14:31.927-04:00Why I Won't Be Reading the New Sarah J. Maas Book<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">For years, Sarah J. Maas has been a staple author in the online book world. She rose to popularity through her <i>Throne of Glass</i> and <i>A Court of Thorns and Roses</i> series. Due to their addictive and entertaining nature, I managed to read all of these. However, I agree firmly with the camp of people who generally dislike SJM books. I don't think they are horrible but they are certainly not the best. I guess I just don't understand the hype. Therefore, I have decided to boycott her new publication, <i><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/44778083-house-of-earth-and-blood?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=EY0zmMpA4R&rank=1" target="_blank">House of Earth and Blood</a>. </i>(P.S.: if you love SJM, that is great! She is just not my cup of tea).</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So why do I not like her books, despite having read nearly all of them? Well, let me provide you with a list. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>1. MAJOR Plotting Issues</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don't even know where to begin here. Both of her series have some serious plotting issues. Let's start with <i>Throne of Glass</i>. <b>The first three books feel like they are from a completely different series than the last four. </b>In my opinion, it has always felt like SJM started off the books with one idea, then changed her mind halfway through and decided to awkwardly alter the plot to fit her new ideas. There is a clear split halfway through the series. Personally, I enjoyed the second "half" better than the first, but that does not change the fact that the <b>transition is sudden and doesn't flow well.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, and SJM also uses convenient excuses to "solve" plot holes. ACOTAR Spoilers: remember when SJM decided to throw in the fact that Mor is gay (without any mention of it further or any respect to the LGBTQ community) to "explain" why she had been stringing another man along for years? I'm sorry, but someones <b>sexuality is not a weak plot device</b>.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>2. Too Much Focus on Cringey Romance</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This may be a personal opinion, but I am not a romance fan. I don't mind it in a book but I despise when it <b>overtakes the main plot</b>. If your book is fantasy, your main focus should be that plot, not the side romances between the characters. SJM regularly allows the <b>romantic relationships take precedence over the actual story</b>. Oh, and how cringe-worthy and unhealthy are those relationships? Plus the sex scenes are just...awkward. Growling is not attractive. Neither is using the word "mate" in every other sentence.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">3. Fake Diversity</span></b><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">SJM strikes me as the kind of author that adds in <b>"token" diverse characters</b> just to claim that her books are diverse. But in reality, they are not. The main casts are always white, attractive, straight people. I read a review once where they described her novels as "aggressively heterosexual" and I have to agree. All the diverse characters are thrown in as side characters that have little to no meaningful impact on the story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I know Feyre and Aelin are self-proclaimed feminists, but nothing about either series reads as feminist to me. In fact, they lean <b>traditionally masculine and patriarchal</b>. The romantic relationships feature some very controlling, stereotypically male counterparts. They are also always described as Males or Females (why???) and are extremely aggressive/overprotective (because they're iN lOVe with their MaTEs). As if that gives them an excuse to order their love interests around? It always rubbed me the wrong way. <b>Why go to such great lengths to create a fantasy world where traditional and harmful misogyny still exists? </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Okay, <b>"plagiarism" is a rather strong term </b>to use here. What I am trying to get at is SJM's blatant copying of other novels' plots. <b>It is one thing to be inspired by another series, but to essentially take complete names/plots/etc. from another author's work is wrong. </b>The two series I have noticed SJM uses is <i>The Prydain Chronicles</i> and <i>The Lord of the Rings</i>, both of which she openly loves. It is disrespectful to basically rip off your favorite books. I won't go into specifics here because that would take me weeks, but you can find discussions where people point out the MANY exact parallels between SJM books and old fantasy series. Even between her two complete book series, there are many similarities in characters, worlds, and plot. Frankly, I just don't think SJM is too original. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Okay, okay, <b>I am done being negative</b>. All in all, I do enjoy SJM books most of the time. I find them to be entertaining and easy to consume. But I am frankly done with ignoring the glaring flaws in her books and have decided to <b>simply stop reading them</b>. Yes, her writing is addictive, but that does not mean it is good. To me, her novels read like really well-written fan fiction. Fun to read with some issues and often problematic in nature. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Do you like Sarah J. Maas? Will you be reading her new book?</b></span></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-46002707804749522422020-05-08T12:00:00.000-04:002020-05-11T14:32:25.297-04:00Skyward is Epic Science Fiction <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Listen, I am a fantasy lover all the way. But being a lifelong nerd means I also adore science fiction. Brandon Sanderson, one of my favorite fantasy authors, released his first sci-fi YA book in 2018. I finally got around to reading it this year and (SPOILERS) I loved it. <i>Skyward</i> is epic, action-packed, and suspenseful. Plus, there are talking space ships, aliens, and a cute slug. If I haven't convinced you to read it yet, keep on reading.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First off, what is <i>Skyward</i> about? The story follows Spensa, a spitfire of a woman who is determined to become a pilot at all costs. However, she lives in the shadow of her father. When she was a child, her father fought as a pilot in the great Battle of Alta. However, he turned against his own and ran, abandoning his flight to an impossible battle. Other pilots were forced to shoot him down and he was branded as a coward. But Spensa knows her father would never have turned his back on his friends. She vows to follow in his footsteps and prove the truth about him. But who would accept the daughter of a coward as a pilot? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As always, the <b>world-building is second to none</b>. Brandon Sanderson knows how to expertly craft a detailed, realistic world to immerse the reader in. What is left of humanity lives on an abandoned planet in caverns below the ground, only surfacing to fight the alien race that is determined to kill them. The culture and people are beautifully developed. You really get a firm grasp on the muddled history of the planet and its people as the plot developed. You <i>understand </i>them. Furthermore, the <b>writing is captivating</b> and descriptive without being too flowery. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The story builds along with the tension. Between learning to fly, defying the odds, and rebuilding an ancient ship, Spensa is attempting to uncover the mystery surrounding her father's death. You will <b>never experience boredom </b>within the pages of this book. Even in the slower moments, there is a <b>great sense of humor</b> and character growth. Watching Spensa develop as a person and as a pilot is touching. She remains true to herself and her ideals while growing and changing into a better version of herself. Plus, her cantankerous teacher, Cobb, is there to offer some wisdom and gruff but loving comments. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>what i disliked </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">To keep it short, <b>nothing.</b> I thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of this book and am dying to get my hands on the sequel. Skyward has a contained arc while building towards the next book. You will become as invested in the big picture as you do with the small side plots. I love the thematic discussion on what makes a hero versus what constitutes a coward. While it is a dichotomy that has been studied before, Brandon Sanderson offers intriguing introspection that fits flawlessly with the plot and characters. Oh, and M-Bot, the talking ship? I LOVE HIM. Who would have thought an AI could have so much personality? </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39348113-skyward" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi46U135_I4AXbLdjk66t-k5UFeNAci7RkqPIu7WV32xNnfhP_gUNHfqW67-D5T3nRg2knG54kmF6uO28aYJE3LKDDohVDW1nECO3hAgZcNH0j-0u-2KcsrJSvErChY_wHWdsNdiqLP8bw/s200/SKY.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> November 6th, 2018</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Delacorte Press</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Pages:</b> 510</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Science fiction</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Synopsis:</b> </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Spensa's world has been under attack for decades.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Now pilots are the heroes of what's left of the human race, and becoming one has always been Spensa's dream. Since she was a little girl, she has imagined soaring skyward and proving her bravery. But her fate is intertwined with that of her father's—a pilot himself who was killed years ago when he abruptly deserted his team, leaving Spensa the daughter of a coward, her chances of attending Flight School slim to none.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>No one will let Spensa forget what her father did, yet fate works in mysterious ways. Flight school might be a long shot, but she is determined to fly. And an accidental discovery in a long-forgotten cavern might just provide her with a way to claim the stars. </i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Have you read <i>Skyward</i>? What did you think?</b></span></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-14931265538674334042020-05-01T12:00:00.000-04:002020-05-01T17:19:04.265-04:0010 Movies to Watch in Quarantine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/05/10-movies-to-watch-in-quarantine.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhax9kx4LD-E607zdiB2CdbYc0PhsNjhyphenhyphenUYi9AOfuR_ljiHsZjolYlSumzryIyYhNDSkSe42Bmfru5EbcVGWC3M3_OUVKJQOsI-Lo_TIvo9RxIlisqrAfL6vHXDhrMCRm107Mnb7idOjw4/s640/IMG_2890+EDIT.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like everyone else stuck in quarantine right now, I have watched a lot of movies and television shows. In fact, a few weeks ago I compiled a list of <a href="http://thebookarchivebyerin.blogspot.com/2020/03/netflix-shows-to-binge-watch-during.html" target="_blank">Netflix shows to binge during isolation</a>. Now, I have created a list of movies! However, these are not all available on Netflix (but I wish they were). I have not had this kind of free time since summers in middle school. The experience is both relaxing and absolutely boring. So if you have run out of things to watch and need some fun movie recommendations, look no further! I also want to say a BIG thank you to all the essential workers right now, including all medical personnel. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Listen, I adore all Ghibli films. But <i>Kiki's Delivery Service</i> will always be my favorite. Admittedly, one of the reasons I love this movie so much is because of nostalgia. But that is not the only reason. <i>Kiki</i> is quaint, sweet, and adventurous. It will inspire a longing for a <b>poetic, gentle lifestyle where you work in a bakery and live with your talking cat.</b> Kiki, the main character, flies off to a new city to practice her witch skills. While she's there, she begins a delivery service. If I have to label it, this is a <b>feel-good movie.</b> The animation is divine and holds that organic quality that only lovingly hand-drawn films can. Honestly, I recommend all Ghibli movies whether you are stuck in quarantine or not. Some other fun options are: <i>Howl's Moving Castle</i>, <i>Ponyo</i>, and<i> My Neighbor Totoro</i>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have been itching to rewatch this film lately. A few years ago, I watched this for the first time expecting an intense, historically-set horror movie. Let me tell you, I was in for a surprise. <i>Crimson Peak</i> is <b>not a horror film</b>, despite how it was originally marketed. This is a gorgeous <b>Gothic romance that happens to have ghosts in it.</b> Ghosts do not always equate to horror. Don't worry if you are a scaredy-cat that can barely even watch <i>Scooby Doo</i> without crying--<i>Crimson Peak</i> is no horror movie. Not only do I love the plot because it is filled with tension and mystery, I love the filming style. <b>Guillermo del Toro directed this film</b>, which means that it is filled with practical effects and colorful lighting. Even the setting is grand and evokes feeling.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Here is another <b>nostalgic favorite</b> of mine. I grew up watching this movie thanks to my dad, who introduced it to me and to my brother. I am not usually one for musicals, but this one is amazing. Plus it stars a young Debbie Reynolds, aka Princess Leia's real-life mother. Singing in the Rain features a <b>funny, heartwarming story with fantastic music</b>. Since it was released in 1952, it has that <b>"old movie" quality</b> without being <i>poor </i>quality. The technicolor stands out beautifully, as well as the dancing. I am talking myself in to watching this again as I write. All in all, <i>Singing in the Rain</i> is a fantastic film that everyone should watch. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Doctor Strange</i> is the most<b> criminally underrated Marvel movie</b>. I get it, I love Iron Man and Captain America, too, but Stephen Strange is like no other. Formally a renowned surgeon, Dr. Strange discovers the <b>world of mystic arts</b> in his quest to heal his ruined hands. I enjoy Dr. Strange (both the comics and the movies) because he is a perfect blend of the science fiction type traditional superhero and a classic fantasy type wizard. Fantasy has been and always will be my favorite genre, so having a superhero that deals with magic and fantastical realms is perfect for me. Not to mention that Benedict Cumberbatch is the most flawless casting for Stephen Strange. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had wanted to see the <i>Jumanji </i>remake since the very first trailers were released. I really love the original film with Robin Williams from the nineties. This new version is <b>absolutely flipping <i>hilarious</i></b>. The plot follows the same premise as the original with a modern twist--Jumanji is a <i>video game</i> rather than a board game. So when the game comes to life, a group of high schoolers are transported into the game. The casting is divine and there are some funny gags. My favorite one is that Jack Black's character had the soul of a basic teenage girl in him, so you get to watch Jack Black prancing around as a popular teenage girl. <b>Iconic</b>. I also rewatched the OG <i>Jumanji</i> after this one and recommend that one, too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A good friend of mine introduced me to <i>Heathers</i> a few years back and I have watched it a million times since. Think of this movie like a <b>sardonic, dark '80s version of <i>Mean Girls</i>.</b> Listen, I love eighties movies in general, but this is one of my all-time favorites. The story follows a high schooler named Veronica who is part of the popular clique where all the other girls are named Heather. She is desperate to distance herself from this snobby, hurtful group. When she meets the new loner, JD, they have an instant connection. Together, they begin to plot their revenge. But JD's plans may be darker than Veronica ever imagined. This is not a light, feel-good film. Heathers is <b>intense, sarcastic, and provocative</b>. Plus, it stars Winona Ryder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I have always been a huge Disney fan. Princess movies were my <i>thing</i> as a child. In my humble opinion, <b><i>Brave</i> is one of the most underrated Disney films</b>. I have adored this movie since it first came out in 2012. The plot follows stubborn, independent Princess Merida in Scotland. She is determined to carve her own fate and to defy her mother's expectations of marriage. But her plans go awry when a witch gives her a spell that turns out to be a curse. This is a tale of bravery, family, and mending bonds. <b>No romance </b>interrupts this beautiful story that has everything you want in a Disney movie: action, adventure, magic, and laughter. I love the focus on the relationship between Merida and her mother. This is one of the rare films that is not a musical, which only enhances the story. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Oh, look, another Robin Williams classic. It also happens to be another eighties era film. <b><i>Dead Poets Society </i>will make you cry. </b>Robin Williams plays an English teacher named John Keating. He is a recent hire at a prestigious and strict private boys' school. However, he finds himself in a bit of hot water due to his unusual teaching methods. But he inspires his young students to <b>fall in love with poetry </b>and the power of language. A group of them decide to form a secret poetry society so they can study their passion in private. But while these kids are wealthy and privileged, they carry the burden of their parents harsh expectations. This film will not only touch your heart, but will<b> perfectly suite readers</b>. <i>Dead Poets Society</i> is inspirational, cinematic masterpiece that will stick with you for years to come.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">We all know the story of <i>The Wizard of Oz</i>. Both the movie and the book are classics. As a little girl, I wore red glittery shoes everywhere for years. I knew <b>every step</b> to the Tin Man's dance. This was the movie I latched onto, as all children do, and watched relentlessly on repeat. <i>The Wizard of Oz</i> is an oldie but a goodie. Everyone has seen it in the near-century since its release. But when is the last time you sat down and watched it? It is <b>larger than life, a colorful rainbow</b> of fantasy and folklore. There's singing, dancing, and an evil witch. It is <i>happy </i>and inspires joy with every scene. This film will always be a favorite of mine. And now that I'm thinking of it, I should really get another pair of red sparkly shoes...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Yes, I am indeed a <i>Star Wars</i> fan. Just when you thought I couldn't get any nerdier. I grew up watching the original trilogy. In fact, I can't recall a time in my life <i>before </i>I saw <i>Star Wars</i> (thanks, dad). This film will always be my <b>all-time favorite</b> from all of the sagas. Nothing is more epic than Luke confronting Darth Vader or Leia adventuring with the handsome rogue, Han Solo. If you try to tell me that this isn't the best Star Wars film...well, you're wrong. Sorry. But I love all the movies, even the bad ones. In fact, I am recommending this specific installment but <b>any <i>Star Wars</i> content is perfect for right now.</b> I just finished watching <i>The Mandalorian </i>and really enjoyed that, too. </span><br />
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-78911086968171179562020-04-24T12:00:00.000-04:002020-04-26T15:42:20.492-04:00Books to Read in Quarantine (ft. some amazing bloggers)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Almost all of us are stuck in quarantine right now, unable to work, go out, or do anything other than sit at home and worry. I have been doing a lot of baking, watching Netflix for hours on end, writing, and reading. Honestly, there isn't a better time to get some reading done than right now. I decided to reach out to some fabulous book bloggers and ask them to contribute a quarantine book recommendation! So without any further ado, here is a list of books you should read during quarantine from some of my favorite bloggers. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">claire at <a href="http://www.clairefyblog.com/" target="_blank">clairefy</a></span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/Finding%20inspiration%20while%20at%20home%20can%20be%20difficult.%20Sometimes,%20a%20little%20motivation%20can%20go%20a%20long%20way.%20Michelle%20Obama's%20Becoming%20offers%20that%20motivation,%20as%20well%20as%20a%20reminder%20of%20the%20importance%20of%20family--%20both%20born%20of%20blood%20and%20composed%20of%20community.%20In%20thoughtful%20and%20reflective%20prose,%20Ms.%20Obama%20describes%20how%20she%20has%20developed%20as%20an%20individual.%20Even%20as%20a%20young%20student,%20she%20was%20goal-oriented%20and%20sought%20to%20fulfill%20a%20plan:%20graduate%20college,%20head%20to%20law%20school,%20work%20at%20a%20firm.%20However,%20Ms.%20Obama%20realizes%20that%20she%20desires%20different%20work,%20even%20if%20it%20deviates%20from%20what%20she%20had%20initially%20planned.%20Her%20later%20efforts,%20spanning%20increasing%20diversity%20and%20outreach%20at%20the%20University%20of%20Chicago%20to%20bettering%20nutrition%20programs%20at%20the%20White%20House,%20will%20inspire%20readers.%20This%20memoir%20was%20one%20of%20my%20first%20reads%20during%20this%20period%20of%20social%20distancing%20and%20certainly%20left%20me%20with%20a%20lot%20to%20think%20about." imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="312" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI5oha1JVBiE06GknSJ0FrTp4J7Z2ldP80P9poSSHFLc-pMQXp0VNTCwtAs-w71pY5f0_VW6nydHmshRj6wiXb8CwVvY6F749UMPSPy43fjVCQht_yjSr0FPIIYRW4FgKs1J7yK1A-tvk/s320/BEC.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Finding inspiration while at home can be difficult. Sometimes, a little motivation can go a long way. Michelle Obama's Becoming offers that motivation, as well as a reminder of the importance of family-- both born of blood and composed of community. In thoughtful and reflective prose, Ms. Obama describes how she has developed as an individual. Even as a young student, she was goal-oriented and sought to fulfill a plan: graduate college, head to law school, work at a firm. However, Ms. Obama realizes that she desires different work, even if it deviates from what she had initially planned. Her later efforts, spanning increasing diversity and outreach at the University of Chicago to bettering nutrition programs at the White House, will inspire readers. This memoir was one of my first reads during this period of social distancing and certainly left me with a lot to think about.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>emily</b> <b>at <a href="https://paperbackprincess2014.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">paperbackprincess</a></b></span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>station eleven</i> by emily st. john mandel</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/So%20my%20pick%20for%20a%20quarantine%20read%20would%20be%20Station%20Eleven%20by:%20Emily%20St.%20John%20Mandel.%20I%20can%20confidently%20say%20that%20this%20is%20my%20all-time%20favourite%20book.%20This%20book%20does%20revolve%20around%20a%20pandemic,%20so%20I%20was%20in%20two%20minds%20about%20recommending%20it%20during%20our%20current%20times.%20However,%20if%20anything,%20I%20have%20wanted%20to%20re-read%20it%20more%20since%20being%20in%20isolation.%20This%20book%20is%20about%20hope,%20healing,%20and%20the%20power%20of%20friendship.%20Different%20storylines%20intertwine%20in%20the%20most%20amazing%20ways.%20Of%20course,%20if%20you%20don%E2%80%99t%20want%20to%20read%20about%20a%20flu%20during%20this%20time,%20I%20totally%20understand.%20But,%20this%20book%20and%20its%20teachings%20have%20definitely%20helped%20me%20get%20through%20some%20of%20my%20toughest%20times.%20It%E2%80%99s%20just%20beautiful." imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvD_ETYRIlSXh6sW0ZGfQ72jSXffNzpehU0mkIjF0ksHBn7AAkBQdZCeb6NfHD86SpRY1vzfQNBSw_JWYbYL8KcoY2aRDBIecf8W2xbzG6KeRpXCUUqGsYp3ggQj-9Csab0SzzJ9LzjQU/s320/SE.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">So my pick for a quarantine read would be Station Eleven by: Emily St. John Mandel. I can confidently say that this is my all-time favourite book. This book does revolve around a pandemic, so I was in two minds about recommending it during our current times. However, if anything, I have wanted to re-read it more since being in isolation. This book is about hope, healing, and the power of friendship. Different storylines intertwine in the most amazing ways. Of course, if you don’t want to read about a flu during this time, I totally understand. But, this book and its teachings have definitely helped me get through some of my toughest times. It’s just beautiful. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;"><b><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">sonya at <a href="https://wolfrosereads.home.blog/" target="_blank">wolfrosereads</a></span></b></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>six of crows</i> by leigh bardugo</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23437156-six-of-crows?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=rH704Tu2Sc&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="314" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGi3nhBNnc_gdKh5KWEx4kVorfYUjOLoshjxLGOZAYOt88p7AwW4KIAWGsfWdhOzQLMQgK3dO1HBZZC23TjnjwQYJRBTipEOaI3DIpX8WDNScL2SIti_-BANXb_hnZLtg0yKYpSmXnaBw/s320/SOC.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Although it is now one of my favorites, I remember being shocked with how much I fell in love with Six of Crows. It was my first time reading a Leigh Bardugo book and I only knew what the synopsis told me about the plot. Well, I quickly learned that the synopsis did not do the book justice. This YA fantasy is so much more than just another heist story. There are tons of plot twists, and it will have you running the streets of Ketterdam by the end. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;"><b><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">vivien at <a href="https://pagesofwonderland.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">pages of wonderland</a></span></b></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>starfish</i> by akemi dawn bowman</b></span><br />
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<a 1em="" clear:="" float:="" href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/29456598-starfish?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=MBXMSHtIyY&rank=3" imageanchor="1" left="" margin-bottom:="" margin-right:="" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ3tyYuMgTz3wUjXPq0g592lC9u4xiSCJ2fcJgqDOEGyc6d_o8VnGFsXOHb9g6zpVQlahQZe_lkDfe5gulLw-ohBeW1i1ooYR4GTa30TSwt-yZvvG7YxDBqYfjfhroMcC-OzeAgW85FTc/s320/STAR.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Starfish is an unknown gem. Those who have read this book or Bowman's other books know how special they are: emotional, beautiful writing, and visceral characters. This is an #OwnVoices novel and it follows and artistic teenager's journey to accept her heritage and self-worth. There are many parts of the book that will make you cry: her relationship with her family, how she perceives herself, etc. Quarantine is the best time to read this novel because no coworker or random passenger taking public transportation will see you ugly cry. </span></span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: medium;"><b><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">me, myself, and I</span></b></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><i>skyward</i> by brandon sanderson</b></span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39348113-skyward" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-ZV_JtiQV2nS3HF6Wstsj7CrNscLvE0Hs7dkXPL3ayEZOWZzfPf4h20EzmAncaqcP_MArWa6f9YFsr8KrSCuH4lfFGdTIOdK41DQjOyaSMg2aBPVmgXpHQ6OE6dlqKXvNbHuWzHVNnQ8/s320/SKY.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I personally know that <i>Skyward</i> is the perfect book to read during quarantine because I read it myself just a couple of weeks ago. Brandon Sanderson's first YA novel is action-packed and will engross you in the story. Hours will pass by without you even realizing it. Spensa has grown up with one goal: to become a pilot and to see the stars like her deceased father. However, her father betrayed his crew and was branded a coward during the last big battle, leaving his family as outcasts. But spunky, stubborn Spensa is determined to make her dreams come true and expose the truth about what truly occurred in that fateful battle. When I finished this book, I put it down immediately wanting to pick up the sequel. <i>Skyward </i>is compelling and features impeccable world-building, along with complex characters. Oh, and did I mention the talking space ship?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>A big thank you to Claire, Emily, Vivien, and Sonya for contributing to this post! Go check out their blogs, which I have linked with their names.</b></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-81fp3zmXDYHPYxHkrZTuABkyc4N0H6hjy_iu5Vh6Ci7YJw_-746rVxVKM_4tNWfwqwIXzhfe3t309zuvbAB5JDQpTpKELZiglk59ylNUoKGmg6uyzvJ_6JgmmFb78EB_ikA4mA16FU/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="81" data-original-width="238" height="68" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS-81fp3zmXDYHPYxHkrZTuABkyc4N0H6hjy_iu5Vh6Ci7YJw_-746rVxVKM_4tNWfwqwIXzhfe3t309zuvbAB5JDQpTpKELZiglk59ylNUoKGmg6uyzvJ_6JgmmFb78EB_ikA4mA16FU/s200/Signature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-43496987504370200672020-04-17T16:17:00.000-04:002020-04-20T14:04:28.058-04:00The Song of Achilles Made Me Cry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In 2019, I read and loved Madeline Miller's newer release, Circe. It was one of my favorite books that year and frankly, of all time. I am a huge classics nerd. It started off with reading the Percy Jackson series as a child and had developed into a fascination with all things ancient. My minor in university is classical studies. So I was obviously stoked to pick up The Song of Achilles, which is Madeline Miller's debut novel. I expected to love it, of course, but I didn't expect it to make me emotionally unstable. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In February, I spent a week in Athens, Greece. I won't waste time by gushing about how amazing that trip was, but I'll just say that it fulfilled and surpassed all my expectations. Anyways, I thought The Song of Achilles would be the perfect book to read while visiting Greece because...duh. <b>Not only was it perfect, this book had me in tears and trying not to bawl like a baby on an airplane.</b> Listen, I am not a crier. I have only shed a tear for one movie and a handful of books. But this book nearly brought me to my knees. In a good way. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>the story</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Madeline Miller is a beautiful writer. She weaves classic mythology with an innovative, original tale seamlessly. The plot follows a familiar story--that of the Trojan war and <i>The Iliad</i>. But Madeline Miller manages to make the classic story unique and touching. She pulls the perspective in to focus on the lives of Achilles and Patroclus, how they grew up together and fell in love before the war interrupted their fate. <b>Her prose is lyrical yet not ostentatious. It will wrap you in a gentle air of magic and emotion. </b>You will soon become lost in a world of love, betrayal, honor, and loyalty. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If you are familiar with mythology, you will know the general trajectory of this plot and the lives of the characters. However, this expectation does not ruin the intensity of each plot twist. In fact, it only makes you cherish each scene more. <b>The story may be ages-old, but it is not boring.</b> For a book about Greek mythology, gods, and monsters, it feels so very human and will touch your heart in a way I cannot explain. This is the kind of story that will stay with you for years to come, nestled in your heart. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Since the book is titles The Song of Achilles, I expected Achilles to be the narrator. I soon found out that I was wrong and that it was Patroclus, Achilles' friend and lover, that would be the protagonist. This is one of the reasons I have come to love Madeline Miller's novels: <b>she chooses forgotten and neglected, yet integral, characters to drive her stories.</b> Patroclus is undeniably a vital part of the classic mythology, yet he is cast aside as a background character. But Madeline Miller brings him to life and he becomes the heart of this war story, changing it from a violent, desperate tale of honor and blood to one of love and memory. Patroclus is kind, bound not by traditional concepts but by the affection he feels towards those who deserve it. He is not the flashy, boisterous hero, but he is <b>brave in a quiet way. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Achilles is shining and heroic, the best of the Greeks. Yet Madeline Miller <b>grants him a softness </b>he is not allowed in <i>The Iliad</i>. Yes, he is conflicted and proud, but he is also gentle and humorous. The love he shares with Patroclus is tender and sweet. <b>Their relationship had even my romance-hating heart melting.</b> But my favorite characters outside of the pair were Chiron (of course) and Briseis, who is clever and strong-hearted. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>the ending</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>I won't spoil anything for those who remain unaware of mythology, but the ending is both epic and tragic.</b> Like I mentioned before, I was trying desperately not to cry like a baby in front of a plane filled with people. The ending broke my heart in the best possible way. I may even love this book more than <i>Circe</i> because it touched me so much. I have been unable to stop thinking about this book since I finished it. <b>I can find no fault with it.</b> Even if you do not enjoy Greek mythology, I would still recommend this book for the strength of its writing and characterization. Amazing. Absolutely amazing. </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13537029-the-song-of-achilles" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="315" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJrVy_dl8tdTY12TSF0D9RlTow4hVF0JhMe39LOSzZdctH_fKw6mZcq9VYOORm8Ig7HxDDVgjkPT9l7x_FWqDcCIWI3OgikubFO9w5c_Yh1j9obeQwuuT625w0U-kr76oxkiCt_Bqy3I/s320/SOA.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> March 6, 2012</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> HarperCollins</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Pages:</b> 389</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Fiction</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Synopsis:</b> </span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>The legend begins...</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Greece in the age of heroes. Patroclus, an awkward young prince, has been exiled to the kingdom of Phthia to be raised in the shadow of King Peleus and his golden son, Achilles. “The best of all the Greeks”—strong, beautiful, and the child of a goddess—Achilles is everything the shamed Patroclus is not. Yet despite their differences, the boys become steadfast companions. Their bond deepens as they grow into young men and become skilled in the arts of war and medicine—much to the displeasure and the fury of Achilles’ mother, Thetis, a cruel sea goddess with a hatred of mortals.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>When word comes that Helen of Sparta has been kidnapped, the men of Greece, bound by blood and oath, must lay siege to Troy in her name. Seduced by the promise of a glorious destiny, Achilles joins their cause, and torn between love and fear for his friend, Patroclus follows. Little do they know that the Fates will test them both as never before and demand a terrible sacrifice.</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Have you read The Song of Achilles? What did you think?</b></span></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-74014217969049608992020-04-10T12:00:00.000-04:002020-04-13T12:27:24.231-04:00A Love Letter to Edinburgh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In January, I shipped myself off to Edinburgh, Scotland. It was not only my first solo trip, but my first trip out of my home country. I was filled with a jumble of emotions: excitement, fear, hope. This trip was the starting point of life's big adventure. Due to the current pandemic situation, I was called back home mid-March by my home university, effectively cutting my study abroad session short. I spent two and a half months living in Scotland, which is half the time I was meant to be there for. I miss it and although I am disappointed that I had to return home, I had the time of my life. I made memories and friends that will stick with me for the rest of my life, and I am so grateful for that opportunity. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Edinburgh is like no other city I have ever been to. Walking through the cobblestone streets, you catch a view of the Edinburgh Castle at every turn. It sits atop a stony hill, looking out over the city it has protected for centuries. I visited the castle twice and loved it both times. Castles are undeniably epic and standing at a site that had witnessed so much history was truly awe-inspiring. Edinburgh is small for a city and feels medieval even now. Half the buildings appear to be small castle-like structures. Every other shop is a cafe or a pub and you can get hot tea in both. My favorite cafe was the <a href="https://elephanthouse.biz/" target="_blank">Elephant House</a>, where J.K. Rowling famously crafted the idea for Harry Potter. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">In the center of the city lies the Meadows, which is a sprawling park. Even in the depths of winter, the Meadows bloomed green and welcoming. People threw balls for their dogs and runners traveled the walkways in between. The city is nestled between rolling Scottish hills and the enchanting Arthur's Seat. I hiked Arthur's Seat before classes began. From the top, you can see the entire city spread out before you. Wind always threatened to blow you away in Scotland, but especially atop a high peak. Nothing compares to the landscape in Scotland. The Highlands are a wild, spirited place where anything seems possible. I see now why Scots believed in druids and will-o'-the'wisps.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I don't think I could choose a favorite part of the city. Maybe Calton Hill, with its view of the city and Arthur's Seat, or the National Museum, where I spent hours exploring. Could it be the peaceful Dean Village, a fairy-tale village plucked out of time? Maybe I would choose Old Town, the ancient center of the city where bookstores, restaurants, and a <a href="https://www.maisondemoggy.com/" target="_blank">cat cafe</a> wait patiently for visitors. Off the square extends Victoria Street, which Diagon Alley is based on. St. Giles Cathedral--gothic and reverent--is a must-see, as well as the cemetery famous for its guard dog, Greyfriar's Bobby. I loved them all. I didn't get to live in Edinburgh for long, but the time I had there was the best experience of my life. I can see why it inspired J.K. Rowling to write Harry Potter because it possesses a special kind of magic. Although my time there was cut short, I will always be thankful for the moments I did get there and for all of the adventures I had. One day, I hope to return. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">This post doesn't even begin to cover my trips outside the city--to Greece, Romania, Loch Ness, Glenfinnan, Pitlochry, and more. Those are their own stories. I had to cancel my trips to France, Italy, Germany, and Spain, but hopefully I will get there one day. This trip may have ended abruptly but I know many more are to come. I also <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbNDCDEhL3nhwwB2I4zm2Mg?view_as=subscriber" target="_blank">vlogged</a> my time there if you wanted to watch. And if you are considering studying abroad or just travelling--do it. You won't regret an opportunity to see the world. For me, that is all I have ever wanted. </span><br />
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-914989030918609235.post-50289133985755626282020-04-03T12:00:00.000-04:002020-04-04T17:40:46.150-04:00The Queen of Nothing: A Disappointing End to a Good Series<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Last year I broke down and read Holly Black's extremely popular series, </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Cruel Prince</i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> and its sequel. I found them to be very fun reads and highly enjoyable, but not perfect. Nevertheless, I had high hopes for the final installment in the trilogy, </span><i style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The Queen of Nothing</i><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">. But I was ultimately disappointed with this book. I listened to the audiobook version since I am now in Edinburgh and spend a lot of time walking around or on the bus. The audiobook was definitely very nice and I recommend it for those who prefer that format. But the content within was lackluster. Also, this is a spoiler-free review!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>what I liked</b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As with the other books in the series, I really liked the world and setting. If you haven't read the books, <i>The Cruel Prince </i>follows a mortal girl named Jude who was kidnapped by her parents murderer and raised by him in fairy-world. There are battles, spying, and a hate-to-love romance. The <b>whimsy and cutthroat quality </b>of fairy society is enticing and pulls you in, keeping you turning the pages for hours on end. The addicting quality of the fast-paced plot continues throughout the entire trilogy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As with the other books, I appreciated some of the characters (namely Jude and Cardan) while absolutely despising others (Locke and Taryn). Jude can be cruel and oftentimes desperate, but she has a strong heart. Cardan is manipulative and arrogant, but is secretly kind of a softie. The <b>complex relationships</b> add a layer of intrigue and angst to the series that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Characters you love will betray someone in a heartbeat and you watch Jude struggling with her feelings regarding her murderer father and her former enemy, Cardan. No one can be trusted. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Honestly, <i>The Queen of Nothing </i>just <b>isn't as gripping or immersive</b> as the first two books. The plot is rather predictable and I was never shocked at any plot "twist" or even that worried about the fate of my favorite characters. Holly Black is a decent writer and I generally enjoy her prose and worlds, but this installment has a <b>lazy plot</b>. If you have ever read a single fantasy novel or fairy tale, you know what happens. While <i>The Queen of Nothing </i>is enjoyable like its predecessors, it doesn't achieve the same level of writing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">A lot of readers love this series due to the two main characters, Jude and Cardan, along with their tumultuous relationship. But <b>Cardan takes a backseat role</b> in this novel and hardly appears, making cameos in a handful of scenes. If you read these books mainly for their relationship, you will be sorely disappointed. Furthermore, the ending is not only predictable, but lackluster. The series wraps up too quickly, with a single battle in a few pages that is anything but high-stakes. Every plot move is too easy and fails to convey a sense of tension or desperation. The character development doesn't fully take shape, leaving things feeling <b>rushed and undone</b>. Holly Black developed her characters and her series until the last few steps and then seemingly gave up and took the simple way out. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="color: red;"><b>Small Spoiler:</b></span> I disliked how Jude, who has always been represented as a cutthroat, chose senseless and undeserved mercy at the last second. This act, along with Cardan's sudden transformation into a sweet puppy-dog, is entirely unbelievable.</span><br />
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<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26032912-the-queen-of-nothing?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=lDrwXMez8q&rank=1" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="475" data-original-width="317" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm-Xu6SEoSyfNYepZRwDMyWoCe1nhfrjfboyeoPoOPNOdFJg0x5wgtjbswNqt80cK8kaWjag32SkhLjFVfQzoYbicyfLjFBneC_4He-Q-QVRwM8rYyfLu5MuFOcowdt9yCky_Il0Gx2tA/s320/QUEEN.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date:</b> November 19th, 2019</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Publisher:</b> Little, Brown</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Pages:</b> 300</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Genre:</b> Fantasy</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Synopsis:</b> <i>Power is much easier to acquire than it is to hold onto. Jude learned this lesson when she released her control over the wicked king, Cardan, in exchange for immeasurable power.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Now as the exiled mortal Queen of Faerie, Jude is powerless and left reeling from Cardan’s betrayal. She bides her time determined to reclaim everything he took from her. Opportunity arrives in the form of her deceptive twin sister, Taryn, whose mortal life is in peril.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>Jude must risk venturing back into the treacherous Faerie Court, and confront her lingering feelings for Cardan, if she wishes to save her sister. But Elfhame is not as she left it. War is brewing. As Jude slips deep within enemy lines she becomes ensnared in the conflict’s bloody politics.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>And, when a dormant yet powerful curse is unleashed, panic spreads throughout the land, forcing her to choose between her ambition and her humanity…</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace; font-size: x-large;"><b>Were you disappointed in the ending?</b></span></div>
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Erin Tweedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16988909013004568553noreply@blogger.com5